How to Recognize the Causes of Cellulitis
The more you are able to recognize the causes of cellulitis, the better chance you may have in preventing the infection in your own body. Though cellulitis usually happens when the skin is broken, other factors, such as ongoing medical conditions and side effects from medications, may also play a role. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Learn about the type of bacteria that causes cellulitis. The two main types of bacteria related to the onset of cellulitis are streptococcus and staphylococcus. The type of bacteria causing your cellulitis will depend on the part of the body that is infected.
-
2
Observe any injuries to your skin, such as regular cuts, scrapes or burns you may have on different parts of your body due to accidents. This also includes intentional breaking of the skin due to piercings, tattoos or surgery. The bacteria that causes cellulitis enters the skin through these types of injuries.
-
-
3
Prevent insect bites, which can cause cellulitis by spreading the infection. Certain spiders and other insects often carry the bacteria that causes cellulitis and may transmit it to you if you are bitten.
-
4
Prevent dry skin by using a moisturizer on your skin. If you skin is dry or flaky enough to crack, it may have openings where the bacteria that causes the cellulitis infection may enter.
-
5
Recognize that any chronic skin-related conditions you may experience could cause frequent and recurring cases of cellulitis. Ongoing skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and ulcers, as well as fungal infections on the feet, such as athlete's foot, may cause openings in the skin that provide a way in for the cellulitis bacteria.
-
6
Remember that medical conditions that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, may indirectly cause cellulitis. When the immune system is weakened, it is unable to recognize or fight off infections like cellulitis and may not be able to prevent the bacteria from causing inflammation under your skin.
-
7
Avoid injecting drugs into your skin. The sharing of needles is extremely dangerous for a variety of reasons, one of which is the spread of infections like cellulitis. In addition to the risks associated with using illegal drugs, it's also a good idea never to use a needle for recreational purposes to avoid contracting cellulitis in the process.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It's important to follow up with your doctor after receiving treatment for cellulitis to make sure there are no complications or risk factors that may cause a recurrence of the condition.
