Published on YouTube: Understanding Cellulitis - Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Understanding Cellulitis - Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention What is Cellulitis? Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection caused primarily by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria entering the skin through cuts, scrapes, wounds, insect bites, or other breaks in the skin barrier, most commonly affecting the lower legs but capable of occurring anywhere on the body. Risk factors for developing cellulitis include weakened immune system (from HIV/AIDS or diabetes), poor circulation, venous insufficiency, chronic conditions like lymphedema, skin conditions such as eczema or athlete's foot, and recent skin injuries that create entry points for bacteria. Early symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and pain in the affected area, with systemic effects like fever, chills, fatigue, and potential complications including lymphedema, bloodstream infections, and serious conditions like osteomyelitis if left untreated. Diagnosis involves physical examination chec...