Are You Aware of the Cellulitis Skin Infection?

What is Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection. It occurs when the bacteria break enters the skin and spread. As a result, cellulitis skin infection appears and causes swelling, redness, warmth, and pain. The infection could appear anywhere on the body, even on the face. However, in many cases, this infection appears on the legs. Generally, this infection affects the skin surface, but it can also impact underlying skin tissues.

Cellulitis Symptoms

Cellulitis Symptoms can vary from person to person depending on the skin area it has affected. However, here are some general symptoms that are noticeable in every case.

• tenderness and pain in the affected area
• inflammation or redness of the skin
• central area that has a blister with pus formation
• a rash or skin sore that appears and grows quickly
• glossy, tight, swollen exterior of the skin
• a feeling of warmness in the affected area
• a fever

In severe cases, symptoms of cellulitis skin infection are:

• fatigue
• shaking
• warm skin
• chills
• a feeling of nausea
• lightheadedness
• dizziness
• muscle aches
• sweating

When this skin infection spreads, a person may experience:

• lethargy
• drowsiness
• blistering
• red streaks

If these symptoms worsen, consult a doctor right away.

What Are the Causes of Cellulitis Skin Infection?

Cellulite is caused by bacteria from the Streptococci and staphylococci groups. These types of bacteria are commonly found on the exterior of the skin and cause no harm. However, if they enter the skin, they can cause contamination or infection. Therefore, to enter into the deeper skin layers, these bacteria usually take a route through a break in the skin. This break in the skin can be caused by:

• cuts
• ulcers
• burns
• grazes
• bites
• skin conditions, such as athlete's foot, eczema, or psoriasis

Home Treatment for Cellulitis

Generally, cellulitis symptoms heal in a couple of weeks. However, in some severe cases, they can take several months. Therefore, try these home remedies to treat the condition.

• Garlic Oil

Garlic is one of the best remedies to treat bacterial skin infection. The antibacterial properties of garlic not only eliminate the bacteria but also provide relief from the pain and irritation caused. How to use: Take one tablespoon of garlic oil and warm it. Apply directly to the infected skin to get relief. Repeat this twice or thrice a day for better results.

• Turmeric Powder

Turmeric is rich in antibacterial properties that are helpful in treating the skin infection. On the other hand, the curcumin present in turmeric helps in relieving the inflammation and itching. How to use: Take a warm glass of milk and add a 1/4th spoon of turmeric powder in it. Drink the milk. Also, applying turmeric paste directly to the skin can help in healing the infection. Choose any of the options but repeat them twice a day for complete relief.

• Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help in soothing cellulitis skin infection. Besides, the rich antibacterial nature of coconut oil helps in eradicating the infection very effectively. How to use: Take a little amount of coconut oil in a bowl. Warm it and apply several times on the affected to get relief.

• Baking Soda

Baking soda is very effective in treating cellulitis. It provides great relief from skin inflammation and irritation as well. Not only this, but baking soda is also a great source of antibacterial properties that cure the infection completely. How to use: Make a paste of baking soda using water. Apply regularly on the skin to treat the problem.

• Fenugreek Seeds

Enriched with flavonoids, Fenugreek seeds can be used topically on the skin to help reduce the infections and inflammation of the skin. These seeds are very helpful in lessening the pain caused due to the infection. How to use: Soak some seeds in water and make a paste. Apply directly to the skin. Cover it with gauze and apply fresh paste after every hour to heal the infection fast.

• Neem

Neem has many medicinal applications. It is one of the best treatments for bacterial infections. Enriched with antibacterial properties, it is a safe and no side effect treatment for cellulitis. This home remedy will eliminate the bacteria causing cellulitis. How to use: Consume diluted neem juice on a regular basis to get relief from the symptoms. Or, make a paste and apply directly to the affected area.

• Yoghurt

Yoghurt is a rich source of probiotics which help in increasing the number of good bacteria in the body. These good bacteria further help to fight cellulitis. Topical application of yoghurt also helps in preventing skin from this condition. How to use: Consume 1-2 cups of yoghurt to lessen itching and inflammation. Besides, it can also be directly applied to the skin.

How Can It Be Prevented?

There are several ways to keep one from contracting cellulitis. Here are some precautionary measures that can help reduce the risk of developing cellulitis. For instance:

• Keep skin moisturized as it will help prevent cracking and peeling.
• Wear appropriate footwear to protect the feet.
• Carefully trim the fingernails and toenails to avoid cuts around the surrounding skin.
• In cold weather, wear gloves to protect the hands.
• Maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness. It will keep from spreading germs and bacteria around.
• Keep the injuries or cuts fresh and clean. Rinse them with water and antiseptic soap.
• Avoid sharing personal items like clothing, grooming essentials, or bedding with others.
• Wash hands with antibacterial soap both before and after touching the wounded skin areas.

For these home remedies and preventions can do the groundwork, consult a doctor if the symptoms get worse. For instance, increased swelling, wound enlargement, pain, pus, etc.