Cellulitis is a common skin condition, caused by bacteria entering into cracks or breaks in the skin that results in infection of the surrounding tissue. Cellulitis is most often found in the lower leg but can be found on any part of the body.

Skin affected by cellulitis appears red, swollen, is often painful and can be hot to touch. Skin may also leak clear or yellow puss. If left untreated, cellulitis can cause fever or sickness, with severe cases resulting in blood infections as the bacteria spreads.

Cellulitis is often found after surgery (around the site of incision), or any cut, scrape or burn that allows bacteria to enter into the soft tissue under the protective layer of skin.

Cellulitis can be treated by a course of oral antibiotics such as sulfamethoxazole or trimethoprim. The infections should respond to the antibiotics within a few days. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics, as directed by your doctor, to ensure that the infection is cured. In some severe cases, a hospital stay may be required, and antibiotics administered intravenously.

To ease immediate pain, you can try placing a cool damp cloth over the affected area or your doctor may be able to recommend an over the counter pain relief.