Dermatology, by video or in person
Cellulitis (Skin Infection)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Cellulitis (Skin Infection)
- A painful, warm, swollen area of skin, usually on one leg
- Redness, or darkening on brown and black skin, that spreads
- Skin that feels tight and shiny
- Blisters on the affected area
- Fever, chills and feeling unwell
Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of the skin, caused by bacteria getting in through a break such as a cut, insect bite, cracked heel, eczema or athlete's foot. The skin becomes painful, warm, swollen and red, or darker than usual on brown and black skin, and the area spreads over a day or two. It most often affects the lower leg. Most cases are treated with antibiotic tablets, but cellulitis that spreads fast, affects the face, or comes with fever and feeling very unwell needs hospital treatment.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A painful, warm, swollen area of skin, usually on one leg
- Redness, or darkening on brown and black skin, that spreads
- Skin that feels tight and shiny
- Blisters on the affected area
- Fever, chills and feeling unwell
- A break in the skin nearby: a cut, bite, crack or sore
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor the same day for skin that is hot, painful and swollen, especially if you have diabetes. Go to a hospital or emergency department now if the redness spreads quickly, the face or around the eye is affected, you have a high fever, vomiting or confusion, the pain is far worse than the skin looks, or the skin turns dark purple or black.
Treatment options
- Antibiotic tablets, usually for five to seven days
- Raising the leg on pillows to reduce swelling
- Paracetamol for pain and fever
- Antibiotics through a drip in hospital for severe or spreading infection
- Treating the way in: athlete's foot, cracked heels or eczema, to stop it returning
Common Questions
Is cellulitis contagious?
No. It is an infection under the skin, not on it, and it does not spread to other people by touch.
Why mark the edge of the redness with a pen?
Drawing around the red area lets you and the doctor see whether it is spreading or shrinking once antibiotics start. Spreading after two days of treatment needs a review.
Why does my leg keep getting cellulitis?
Repeated attacks often come from an untreated way in, such as athlete's foot between the toes, or from swelling of the legs. Treating those lowers the chance of it coming back.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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