@hckynut
The show on Yesterday discussed that many doctors do not know the connection between them. Yet there is. Kathy Bates is trying to get the information out there that many doctors do not know. This explains the correlation between them
The Cycle of Cellulitis and Lymphedema
Wednesday, 15 August 2018
FacebookTwitterGoogle+Share
On its own, lymphedema is an uncomfortable, and at times painful condition which develops when your lymphatic system fails to function properly. This failure results in lymphatic fluid collecting in the soft tissue of the legs, arms, or hands with associated swelling, heaviness and discomfort. As lymphedema worsens it impacts your health, quality of life and increases your risk of cellulitis. Cellulitis is a serious complication of lymphedema, which can lead to further lymphatic damage and a cascade of events including recurrent cellulitis.
cellulitis and lymphedema
What Is Cellulitis?
Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and soft tissues. It develops when bacteria breaks the skin barrier. While cellulitis is not contagious, if you have it, the If not treated the infection can spread rapidly. Signs and symptoms of cellulitis include a red, tender, swollen area that is warm to the touch, with or without fever or chills. In severe cases the swelling and inflammation can spread can causing ‘water’ blisters and lymphatic fluid drainage.
Cellulitis can be serious, so it’s important to:
Learn how to spot cellulitis,
Seek treatment for any and all skin rashes or infections,
Learn how to prevent skin infections during lymphedema flares.
How Lymphedema Can Lead To Cellulitis
The skin stretches and thins, as the lymph fluid accumulates, weakening your natural skin barrier and increasing the risks of infection. Folds in the skin of lymphedema patients can also trap bacteria. Once bacteria penetrates the skin the swollen tissue is a perfect mileu for infection to develop and spread. While not all lymphedema patients will develop cellulitis, the risk is much higher.
Cellulitis Also Worsens Lymphedema
Together, cellulitis and lymphedema create a cycle of pain, discomfort and further lymphatic damage. Over time you may develop chronic lymphedema with inflammatory changes in the affected limb. Remember if you already have lymphedema, cellulitis can make it worse.
The Health Consequences Of Recurrent Cellulitis
Skin infections like cellulitis can spread to the rest of the body. Bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and bones, can even cause tissue death (gangrene) or deep tissue infection (necrotizing fasciitis). Some more serious cases may require checking into the hospital for antibiotics, nursing care and observation.
How Is Cellulitis Treated?
Your doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics and give additional instructions to reduce swelling and increase your comfort. However, in some cases, you may be hospitalized with intravenous antibiotics if you have:
A high fever
Cellulitis that doesn’t respond to oral antibiotic treatment
More serious symptoms, such as necrotizing fasciitis
Go to the emergency room or dial 9-1-1 if you have a rash with a fever. If you have no fever, you can choose to call your doctor.
Additional Risk Factors For Cellulitis
Lymphedema isn’t the only cause of skin infections. Other risk factors include:
Obesity or being overweight
Skin conditions like eczema or athlete’s foot, which create cracks in the skin that allow bacteria to enter
Cuts, scrapes, and burns that give bacteria an easy way in
Weakened immune system due to medications or chronic health conditions like leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or diabetes
https://www.veinspecialists.com/blog/cellulitis-lymphedema/
Blogs & Forums
Forums
Blogs
