What is cellulitis?
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection affecting the deeper layers of skin and underlying tissues. It is usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria. Cellulitis leads to redness, warmth, swelling, and pain, typically affecting the legs, arms, or face.
It can affect anyone but is more common in people with breaks in the skin, weakened immune systems, or circulation problems. Untreated cellulitis can spread rapidly and become serious.
What causes cellulitis?
- Bacteria entering through cuts, ulcers, insect bites, or wounds
- Skin conditions such as eczema or athlete’s foot increasing vulnerability
- Immune suppression or chronic illnesses
Common triggers:
- Minor skin injuries
- Chronic skin disease
- Diabetes or peripheral vascular disease
- Lymphedema or swelling
What are the common symptoms of cellulitis?
You may notice:
- Red, swollen, warm, and tender skin
- Pain or discomfort in affected area
- Fever or chills in more severe cases
- Blisters or pus in some instances
- Rapid progression over hours to days
How is cellulitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on:
- Clinical assessment of redness, swelling, and tenderness
- Symptom history, including onset and possible triggers
- Blood tests or imaging may be used if severe or systemic infection is suspected
Online GP consultation is suitable for early assessment, prescription, and monitoring. In-person review is essential if:
- Rapidly spreading infection
- High fever, systemic symptoms, or immunocompromised state
- Signs of abscess formation
How long does cellulitis last?
- Mild cellulitis: 5–10 days with treatment
- Severe cases: may require longer courses of antibiotics or hospital admission
- Untreated cellulitis can worsen rapidly
Is cellulitis contagious?
No. Cellulitis itself is not contagious, though the bacteria can spread via direct contact with broken skin in some cases.
How to feel better and recover quickly
Self-care at Home:
- Rest and elevate the affected limb
- Keep skin clean and monitor for worsening
- Avoid scratching or breaking the skin further
Treatment from a GP:
- Oral antibiotics for mild to moderate infection
- Intravenous antibiotics for severe infection or hospitalised patients
- Pain relief and supportive care
When Referral is Needed:
- Rapidly spreading or severe cellulitis
- Involvement of face, hands, or genitals
- Recurrent or complicated infections
When to seek urgent medical help
Seek urgent medical attention in A&E if:
- Fever, chills, or feeling unwell
- Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
- Severe pain or formation of abscess
- Signs of sepsis
Seek same-day GP care if:
- Mild cellulitis is not improving with antibiotics
- Skin changes are worsening
How Dr.Online UK can help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment, diagnosis, and prescription of antibiotics
- Monitoring advice and escalation if infection worsens
- Referral to hospital or specialist care when required
