Cellulitus

If you experience the skin infection cellulitis, see the experts at the Texas Infectious Disease Institute in Richardson, Texas, as soon as possible. Double-board-certified internal medicine and infectious disease specialist Serge Lartchenko, MD, and his experienced team offer highly effective treatments to eliminate the infection and your risk of severe complications. Call the office today to schedule an evaluation or use the online booking feature.

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a deep infection that affects the skin beneath the outer layer. Common causes are staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria. When left untreated, or if not treated early enough, cellulitis can spread to other areas, causing a deeper infection. See the Texas Infectious Disease Institute team at the first sign of cellulitis.

What are the symptoms of cellulitis?

The symptoms of cellulitis include:

• Swelling
• Irritated skin
• Warmth
• Pain
• Tenderness
• Chills
• Fever
• Skin spots
• Blisters
• Skin dimpling

Deep skin infections are uncomfortable immediately, but when left untreated, they can quickly escalate into more severe problems. The infection can spread to vital organs or cause bone infections.

What are the risk factors for cellulitis?

While anyone can develop cellulitis, its risk factors include:

• Breaks or cracks in the skin
• Wounds
• Weak immune system
• Chronic limb swelling
• Being overweight
• History of cellulitis
• Diabetes
• Older age

A common site for cellulitis to occur is the lower leg. Infection-causing bacteria are more likely to enter your body through dry, swollen, flaky, or broken skin. It can enter through puncture wounds, cuts, surgical sites, dermatitis, athlete’s foot, ulcers, fractures, burns, shingles, or scrapes.

How does my provider diagnose cellulitis?

The Texas Infectious Disease Institute team reviews your symptoms and medical history to determine if you have cellulitis. They examine your skin in areas of infection and often order bloodwork or other diagnostic tests.

How is cellulitis treated?

The Texas Infectious Disease Institute offers treatments for even the most complex cases of cellulitis. The practice has a long history of treating this condition effectively, as it’s one of the leading antibiotics providers in the North Dallas area.

You might receive a series of intravenous antibiotics treatments to help you overcome cellulitis. Your provider follows up with you to make sure your treatment works and will change your treatment when needed.

To prevent further problems, keep wounds and surgical sites clean, cover wounds with bandages, and watch carefully for signs of infection. Early treatment offers the most effective outcomes.

Schedule an evaluation today at the Texas Infectious Disease Institute by phone or online at the first sign of cellulitis.