Cellulitis is a very serious infection that differs from most other skin conditions in that it actually spreads under the skin instead of on the surface.
It affects not only the skin and tissue, but also the fat that is located underneath it.
While it is not contagious, it does have the ability to occur very easily anytime the skin is broken.
But in the case of people diagnosed with diabetes, broken skin is not necessary in order to develop it.
Although cellulitis can occur on any area of the body, the most common locations where it will be found are on the face, arms and legs.
Seniors and infants are typically the ones who develop facial occurrences.
These are serious in nature since a percentage of them can progress into meningitis if they enter the skull.
Cellulitis that forms when the skin isn't broken usually occurs in the case of individuals whose immune system has weakened.
A prime example of this is diabetics.
This is a dangerous scenario since the condition can worsen quickly due to the person with diabetes having a slower ability to recover from infections.
One extreme form of cellulitis occurs in the eye area.
The reddened rash forms around the eyelid and, if not treated, makes it's way into the eye socket.
This is usually found to be caused by a bacteria.
When this happens, it is of the utmost importance medical attention be administered immediately or else the individual could suffer permanent eye damage and even meningitis.
Diabetics have to be careful with cellulitis due to the fact it most commonly occurs on the skin of the feet and usually involves a serious infection through a break in the skin.
Both of these are sensitive issues for diabetics and can complicate recovery.
Another issue is the condition can make its way into the bloodstream.
Bacteria is usually the cause, but it is not unusual to find a fungus is the problem.
Unfortunately, if you base your recovery on antibiotics alone this doesn't always work due to the fact the antibiotics work at a much slower pace than the rate at which the cellulitis itself spreads.
If the cellulitis becomes really severe, the infected tissue may need to be removed surgically.
If the infection is allowed to continue, amputation may then be the only way to prevent it from spreading through the rest of the body.
The treatment for cellulitis can vary depending on the actual cause of the cellulitis; how severe of a case it is, and several other circumstances.
The affected area may need to be elevated, and warm compresses applied to it.
If it is not a serious case, the individual should begin to notice improvement within a few days.
High blood sugar levels, combined with poor circulation, puts the skin...
on your whole body...
at risk for infections ranging from yeast to open wound-related infections.
Many conditions involve the skin and are unique to the person with diabetes because of the treatment and complications of the disease.
It is always best to see your doctor as soon as you are aware of any skin issues.