Cellulitis is inflammation of the skin caused by bacteria. Cellulitis infections are often caused by streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and may also develop from a more serious type of staph infection, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. While relatively common, according to MayoClinic.com, cellulitis is potentially serious if left untreated. Infections with cellulitis commonly appear on the legs, arms, face and scalp. A person with symptoms of infection with cellulitis should seek medical treatment immediately to prevent complications.
Swelling
Cellulitis forms in the connective tissue beneath the skin. Bacteria beneath the skin are responsible for causing inflammation of the skin tissue. A person with a cellulitis infection may notice edema, swelling of affected skin. Skin may also appear red or irritated and have a glossy or shiny appearance. Affected skin may also feel very warm to the touch. Swelling generally spreads as the infection worsens. A physician may mark the circumference of a cellulitis infection in ink to ensure swelling and redness recedes with treatment instead of getting worse.
Pain and Rash
Skin affected by cellulitis is often painful to the touch. MedlinePlus states that a person may feel tenderness or stiffness in a joint, such as the knee, if the cellulitis infection is over or close to a joint. A person may also develop a rash over the affected area, including tiny blisters that burst open, according to MayoClinic.com.
Open Sore
Injury or medical conditions that cause a break in the skin, such as eczema, may allow bacteria to enter the skin and result in cellulitis. Alternatively, cellulitis may also form beneath intact skin and cause a sore to develop. A person may notice a small sore develop, which may be surrounded by red, irritated skin. The sore may develop quickly and get worse over a 24-hour period, according to MedlinePlus.
General Illness
Feelings of general illness may also accompany infections with cellulitis. A person may develop fever and chills, which often occur after skin changes such as redness and swelling begin. Nausea, muscle aches and pains may also occur, along with general fatigue or tiredness. Left untreated, a person may experience worsening illness symptoms.
