Cellulitis, Best Natural Treatment

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that is much less common than folliculitis. Like folliculitis, it's usually caused by either Streptococcus or Staphylococcus that live on the skin. It may sometimes be caused by Haemofilus Influensa. Like with folliculitis, there's usually some type of inciting event, such as an injury or a wound, which opens the path for the bacteriae that cause the infection. Even an insignificant scratch could introduce the bacteria beneath the surface of the skin, where it multiplies and produces symptoms and signs of infection.

The skin becomes tender, red, hot and swollen, and the skin may resemble orange peel. Fever and or nausea may be present. Symptoms usually develop within 24 hours of the injury. If cellulitis develops as a facial infection or infection on the hands, it can impinge on important structures. In the hands, swelling can compress nerves and tendons, so you wouldn't be able to use your fingers. In the face, it can be very nasty, even catastrophic if it involves the eye.

Sometimes a red streak across the affected area can be seen. This represents an infection of the lymphatic system. If this condition remains utreated, it may cause infection of the blood, but this is rare.

Diabetics are more prone to this type of infection. People with diabetes, who tend to develop leg ulcers, are at higher risk because bacteria can be introduced beneath the surface of the skin in the area of the ulcer. Cellulitis can result from any wound-formations, including surgical wounds. Surgical wounds can create an entryway for the bacteria, just the way any skin wound can.

How is this infection best treated?

Cellulitis is treated with warm compresses or soaks, and pain relievers (tablets and other forms administered through the mouth), which can also reduce fever, can help. It is usual to treat with oral antibiotics for about 10 days, and intravenous antibiotics are sometimes necessary in severe cases. It is usually not contagious.