Being a bacterial infection, cellulite causes inflammation of the skin. For patients with lymphedema, cellulitis is a common occurrence and complication that they encounter very often. In patients with lymphedema, the replacement changes the skin, and therefore it is more vulnerable to all types of infection. Since the lymphatic system and the body’s immune system are closely related, any damage to the lymphatic system puts the patient’s immunity to infection at risk. A weakened immune system is unable to fight off infectious attacks, leaving the body susceptible to repeated attacks and heightened infection. This vicious cycle leads to cellulitis in patients with lymphedema.
The main cause of cellulitis is bacteria, known as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus. Often, the entry point for bacteria is a tiny incision or a mosquito bite or breeze. The most common symptoms were swelling and pain in the area, skin rash, fever, chills and the area feels warm to the touch. However, all symptoms may be absent at the same time. Each person will experience a difference in the appearance of symptoms. Even when cellulite recurs in a patient, it may differ from the previous episode. The usual place of appearance are the legs, but it can also affect the face, hands and scalp.
Cellulite treatment occurs in the form of antibiotics. If the treatment is fast, the cellulite subsides within a week. However, in some patients with lymphedema, cellulite may be so severe that it may be necessary to stay in the hospital for intravenous antibiotics. This may indeed be the worst patient experience with lymphedema causing the most frequent hospital visits. Early treatment is necessary to prevent complications or further deterioration.
During a cellulite attack, the patient may have to discontinue lymphedema therapy. Until the infection disappears, manual lymphatic drainage should be stopped. Compression of the dressing should be emphasized, and compression clothing should not be used during the period. As far as possible, the patient is advised to hold the affected limb. The antibiotic prescribed for treatment should be completed, even if the symptoms seem to have disappeared.
To prevent cellulitis, patients with lymphedema should take extra precautions. Cut or breeze should not be ignored, and they should be processed immediately. Cleaning the wound and applying antibiotic cream is the best way. Wound dressing promotes healing, although the dressing needs to be changed daily. Patients should also be alert to fungal infections of the feet. Skin care is very important, as it helps keep infections in fear. General precautions like these are the best way for patients with lymphedema to prevent cellulitis. Other simple precautions include wearing gloves when working with detergents, using sharp tools and gardening. Patients with lymphedema should avoid walking barefoot and avoid sharp objects. Such simple precautions will be important in preventing complications for patients with lymphedema.
