OhioHealth Online

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in the deepest layer of skin. Cellulitis develops when bacteria enter the body through a crack or cut in the skin. Sometimes cellulitis recurs.

Various factors increase the risk of recurrent cellulitis, including:

• Breaks in the skin. Wounds, cuts and incisions — including body piercings — can provide an entry point for bacteria.
• Chronic skin conditions. Any skin condition that causes the skin to blister or crack — such as eczema or athlete's foot — may provide an entry point for bacteria.
• Chronic lymphedema. A limb affected by lymphedema — a condition that causes swelling due to poor drainage of lymph fluid — is particularly vulnerable to infections.
• Poor circulation. Decreased blood flow can interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Weak immune system. A weak immune system can interfere with healing and increase the risk of recurrent infections.

Cellulitis is usually treated with antibiotics. It's important to take the antibiotics exactly as prescribed — including finishing the full course of antibiotics, even if signs and symptoms have already improved.

To help prevent recurrent episodes of cellulitis, keep skin clean and well moisturized. Prevent cuts and scrapes by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, using gloves when necessary, and trimming fingernails and toenails with care. Seek prompt medical attention at the first sign of a skin infection of the hands or feet.

You might also encourage your husband to ask his doctor about long-term antibiotic treatment. Some people who have recurrent cellulitis may benefit from long-term antibiotic treatment to prevent recurrent infections.