Cellulitis

Introduction

Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin and the soft tissues underneath. It happens when bacteria enter a break in the skin and spread. The result is infection, which may cause swelling, redness, pain, or warmth. Cellulitis is a common and sometimes painful bacterial skin infection. It may first appear as a red, swollen area that feels hot and tender to the touch.The redness and swelling can spread quickly.

cellulitis

It most often affects the skin of the lower legs, although the infection can occur anywhere on a person’s body or face. Cellulitis usually happens on the surface of the skin, but it may also affect the tissues underneath. The infection can spread to lymph nodes and bloodstream. Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin and the soft tissues underneath. It happens when bacteria enter a break in the skin and spread. The result is infection, which may cause swelling, redness, pain, or warmth.

They’re at risk if they have :

  • Trauma to the skin
  • Diabetes
  • Circulatory problems, such as not enough blood flow to arms and legs, poor drainage of veins or lymphatic system, or varicose veins -- twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin
  • Liver disease like chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis
  • Skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, or infectious diseases that cause sores, like chickenpox

Understanding Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a common bacterial infection affecting the skin and the soft tissues beneath it. It occurs when bacteria enter a break in the skin, leading to inflammation, swelling, redness, and pain. While cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body, it most commonly affects the lower legs. The infection can spread quickly and may involve the deeper layers of tissue, lymph nodes, and bloodstream. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors associated with cellulitis is crucial for effective management and prevention.

Causes of Cellulitis

Things that cause cellulitis include :

  • Injuries that tear the skin
  • Infections after surgery
  • Long-term skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
  • Foreign objects in the skin
  • Bone infections underneath the skin. (An example is a long-standing, open wound that is deep enough to expose the bone to bacteria.)
  • Cellulitis occurs when bacteria, most commonly streptococcus and staphylococcus, enter through a crack or break in your skin. The incidence of a more serious staphylococcus infection called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasing.
  • Although cellulitis can occur anywhere on your body, the most common location is the lower leg. Bacteria are most likely to enter disrupted areas of skin, such as where you've had recent surgery, cuts, puncture wounds, an ulcer, athlete's foot or dermatitis.
  • Animal bites can cause cellulitis. Bacteria can also enter through areas of dry, flaky skin or swollen skin.

Risk Factors of Cellulitis

Several factors put you at increased risk of cellulitis :

  1. Injury. Any cut, fracture, burn or scrape gives bacteria an entry point.
  2. Weakened immune system. Conditions that weaken your immune system — such as diabetes, leukaemia and HIV/AIDS — leave you more susceptible to infections. Certain medications also can weaken your immune system.
  3. Skin conditions. Conditions such as eczema, athlete's foot and shingles can cause breaks in the skin, which give bacteria an entry point.
  4. Chronic swelling of arms or legs (Lymphedema). Conditions sometimes follow surgery.
  5. History of cellulitis. Having had cellulitis before makes you prone to develop it again.
  6. Obesity. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing cellulitis.

Symptoms of Cellulitis

Symptoms of Cellulitis
Symptoms of Cellulitis
Symptoms of Cellulitis

Cellulitis symptoms include:

  • Pain and tenderness in the affected area
  • Redness or inflammation of your skin
  • A skin sore or rash that grows quickly
  • Tight, glossy, swollen skin
  • A feeling of warmth in the affected area
  • An abscess with pus
  • Fever

More serious cellulitis symptoms include :

  • Shaking
  • Chills
  • Feeling ill
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Muscle aches
  • Warm skin
  • Sweating

Symptoms like these could mean that cellulitis is spreading :

  • Drowsiness
  • Lethargy
  • Blisters
  • Red streaks
Symptoms of Cellulitis

Complication of Cellulitis

  • Recurrent episodes of cellulitis may damage the lymphatic drainage system and cause chronic swelling of the affected limb.
  • Rarely, the infection can spread to the deep layer of tissue called the fascial lining. Necrotizing fasciitis is an example of a deep-layer infection. It's an extreme emergency.

Prevention of Cellulitis

If your cellulitis recurs, your doctor may recommend preventive antibiotics. To help prevent cellulitis and other infections, take these precautions when you have a skin wound:

  • Wash your wound daily with soap and water. Do this gently as part of your normal bathing.
  • Apply a protective cream or ointment. For most surface wounds, an over-the-counter ointment (Vaseline, Polysporin, others) provides adequate protection.
  • Cover your wound with a bandage. Change bandages at least daily.
  • Watch for signs of infection. Redness, pain and drainage all signal possible infection and the need for medical evaluation.

People with diabetes and those with poor circulation need to take extra precautions to prevent skin injury. Good skin care measures include the following:

  • Inspect your feet daily. Regularly check your feet for signs of injury so you can catch infections early.
  • Moisturise your skin regularly. Lubricating your skin helps prevent cracking and peeling. Do not apply moisturiser to open sores.
  • Trim your fingernails and toenails carefully. Take care not to injure the surrounding skin.
  • Protect your hands and feet. Wear appropriate footwear and gloves.
  • Promptly treat infections on the skin's surface (superficial), such as athlete's foot. Superficial skin infections can easily spread from person to person. Don't wait to start treatment.
prevention of Cellulitis

Diagnosis of Cellulitis

Doctor will do a medical history and physical exam. Other procedures could include :

  • A blood test if they think the infection has spread to blood
  • An X-ray if there’s a foreign object in skin or the bone underneath is possibly infected
  • A culture. The doctor will use a needle to remove fluid from the area and send it to the lab.

Doctors will likely be able to diagnose cellulitis just by looking at skin. A physical exam might reveal:

  • Swelling of the skin
  • Redness and warmth of the affected area
  • Swollen glands

Depending on the severity of symptoms, doctors may want to monitor the affected area for a few days to see if the redness or swelling spreads. In some cases, doctors may take blood or a sample of the wound to test for bacteria.

Homoeopathy and Cellulitis

Homoeopathy offers a natural and holistic approach to treating cellulitis, focusing on stimulating the body's innate healing ability and addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to the infection. Homoeopathic remedies are selected based on the individual's specific symptoms, constitution, and overall health status. These remedies help alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and prevent recurrence without causing adverse effects.

Homoeopathic Medicines for Cellulitis

  1. Belladonna – For Marked Redness of Skin

    Belladonna acts as a very good natural medicine for cellulitis where the skin is markedly red and swollen giving it a shining appearance. Patients requiring Belladonna will also experience pain which gets worse by touch. The character of pain is that it appears and disappears suddenly. Another marked feature where this medicine Belladonna can be used for cellulitis is dryness of skin with much heat.

  2. Apis Mellifica – When Marked Swelling is Present

    Apis mellifica is suited in those cases of cellulitis in which there is much swelling of the affected area along with much burning and stinging type of pain. Apis mellifica also responds to those cases of cellulitis in which the burning pains are relieved by applying something cold over skin and the pains that rapidly shift from one part to another. Another feature of this medicine indication is the rosy hue of skin with much sensitivity towards touch. Apis mellifica can be taken in all those cases where cellulitis is a result of honey bee sting. For swelling with a puffy appearance that worsens with heat and pressure, especially in the afternoon and is better with cold applications, open air, movement, and sitting upright. Great remedy for Cellulitis after insect bite. For skin which is sore, sensitive and stinging with rosy hue. Excellent for sudden puffing of the whole body.

  3. Ledum Palsture – For Cellulitis resulting from Insect Bites

    Ledum palustre holds a very good image in treating those cases of cellulitis resulting from insect bites. This natural medicine is used in cellulitis when there is coldness of the affected part with tearing type of pain. Ledum palustre can be used in long-standing cases of cellulitis in which the skin colour changes from blueness to green.

  4. Silicea- For Cellulitis when Blebs appear on Skin

    This remedy Silicea gives very good results when blebs are formed on skin in advanced cellulitis cases. These blebs can contain pus which is very offensive. Silicea is also used when along with cellulitis there is fever with chilliness and offensive perspiration. Marked remedy for skin where every little injury suppurates, with offensive pus in it. For fever in Cellulitis with creepy shivering over the whole body.

  5. For Pyrogenium for Septicaemia in Cellulitis

    Pyrogenium is an excellent remedy for treating septicemia. The points that guide towards its use in septic conditions is a) fever with chills b) The body temperature being 103 to 106, rising quickly with abnormally very rapid pulse rate making the patient restless.The patient requiring pyrogenium complains of excessive chilliness in the back. In cases where septicemia occurs after surgery or after childbirth, Pyrogenium acts very effectively.

  6. Calendula Officinalis in Post Surgical Cellulitis

    Undoubtedly the best remedy for cellulitis that has come after surgical cuts is Calendula officinalis. This medicine acts very efficiently not only as a curative but also as preventive for excessive suppuration/pus formation on the skin in cellulitis developing post surgically. If applied locally to the wounded skin after an injury it helps as a preventive for cellulitis.

  7. Cantharis

    For restless and anxious individuals; may be used for children; only available under the direction of a licensed homoeopath

  8. Lachesis

    For symptoms that tend to be worse on the left side of the body and during and immediately after sleep. Great remedy for blue black swellings in severe cases of Cellulitis. For pus filled dissecting wounds. Effective for Cellulitis in old age. Condition better by appearance of discharge and warm applications .

  9. Mercurius

    For individuals who are bothered by both heat and cold, and are often trembling and impulsive

  10. Sulphur

    For hot, burning skin with itching that worsens at night and with washing

  11. Rhus Toxicodendron

    Excellent remedy for Cellulitis and Erysipelas, where skin is intensely red and swollen. Condition aggravates in cold, wet, rainy weather and gets better by warm application. For individuals who are restless and anxious with itching that tends to worsen at night but is relieved by warm compresses or pressure.

Benefits of Homoeopathic Treatment

  1. Individualised Care: Homoeopathy recognizes that each person is unique. A homoeopath will assess your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to prescribe a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
  2. Gentle and Natural: Homoeopathic remedies are derived from natural substances and are known for their minimal side effects. They work in harmony with the body, promoting self-healing and overall well-being.
  3. Holistic Approach: Homoeopathy takes into account not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects of an individual. It aims to restore balance at all levels, providing comprehensive care.
  4. Long-Term Relief: By addressing the underlying causes of cellulitis, homoeopathy strives to achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Patient Review

Consulting a Homeopath

Seeking guidance from a sanjivani qualified homoeopathic practitioner is essential for effective management of cellulitis. A sanjivani doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, considering the individual's medical history, symptoms, lifestyle factors, and emotional well-being. Based on this assessment, the sanjivani doctor will prescribe the most appropriate remedies and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, wound care, and preventive measures. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan ensure ongoing support and monitoring of progress without any homoeopathic diet restriction .

Sanjivani Homeopathy Clinic USP

  1. No homoeopathy Dietary Restrictions:

    Allows patients to enjoy foods like onion, garlic, and coffee, ensuring a stress-free treatment journey.

  2. 24/7 Online Consultations:

    Enables convenient access to doctors with detailed counseling, history management, and follow-ups.

  3. Highly Skilled Team:

    Experienced BHMS and MD doctors, supported by multilingual and professional staff.

  4. Patient-Centric Care:

    Simplifies treatment with modern, adaptable solutions and clear communication.

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FAQ's

  1. What is homoeopathy ?

    Homoeopathy is a holistic science which belives in the law of Similia Similibus Curenter i.e Like Cures Like .It was discovered by Dr Samuel Christian Hahnemannn in 1796.

  2. Is there any side effects of homoeopathy?

    As homoeopathic medicines are made from natural substances this medicines have no side effects and are completely safe to consume

  3. Is there any diet restriction to take homoeopathic medicines?

    There are no diet restrictions for homoeopathic medicines. One should only avoid eating or drinking any liquid other than water at least 30 minutes before and after taking homoeopathic medicines.

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Conclusion

Cellulitis is a common bacterial infection that requires prompt and appropriate treatment to prevent complications and promote healing. Homoeopathy offers a safe, natural, and effective approach to managing cellulitis, addressing the underlying causes and supporting the body's innate healing mechanisms. Sanjivani Homeopathy Diet and Yoga Clinic specialises in personalised homoeopathic treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs, providing comprehensive care for those struggling with cellulitis. With its gentle yet potent remedies, homoeopathy offers hope and relief for individuals seeking a holistic approach to their health and well-being.

Disclaimer : The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment for Cellulitis or any other medical condition.

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