Overview
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin and the tissue beneath it, causing an area of skin to become red or discoloured, swollen, warm and painful. It most often affects the lower legs but can occur anywhere. It can spread quickly and become serious, so it needs prompt medical attention.
Symptoms
- An area of skin that is red, purple or darker than usual, often with poorly defined edges
- Swelling, warmth and tenderness
- Pain in the affected area
- Skin that may look tight, glossy or blistered
- Feeling generally unwell, fever or chills as the infection progresses
Causes & risk factors
- Bacteria entering through a break in the skin such as a cut, graze, insect bite, ulcer or athlete's foot
- Skin conditions or swelling that damage the skin barrier
- Higher risk with diabetes, poor circulation, a weakened immune system or long-term leg swelling
Treatment & self-care
Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a clinician, alongside rest, raising the affected limb and pain relief. Most cases are managed at home, but severe or rapidly spreading infection may need hospital treatment. Seeking care early is important to prevent complications.
See a doctor urgently if
- You have an area of red, swollen, warm and painful skin - see a doctor promptly
- Redness is spreading quickly, you have a high fever, chills, confusion or feel very unwell - seek emergency care
- There are blisters, the skin is turning dark, or pain seems out of proportion to how the skin looks - seek emergency care
- Symptoms do not improve within a couple of days of starting treatment
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system and develop any skin infection
This condition can be an emergency. If any of the signs above are severe or getting worse, go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number — do not wait for an online consultation.