Usually, the first sign of this type of infection is pain or severe discomfort in the affected area. Some describe the symptons as "flu-like". Next you get red blotches or streaks and the area becomes painful to the touch and warm, or even hot. You can get chills and even a high fever. The redness is known as erythema and the warmth is known as hyperthermia You have to visit a doctor at the first signs of cellulitis. If you are lucky, 10 days worth of antibiotics by mouth should do the trick and you can remain at home. Keep the affected limb elevated. Do NOT do manual lymphatic drainage or any compression therapy while you have cellulitis. No compression garments or tight clothing until the condition returns to normal.
You avoid cellulitis the same way you take precautions with your lymphedema - avoid bug bites, prickly bushes, cuts, etc. When you do get the unavoidable cut/scratch/bite, wash the area immediately and use an antibacterial salve. Most LE patients have a profilactic prescription for antibiotics on hand. I find that if I take meticulous care of my skin and treat all cuts with an appropriate dressing, along with starting a regimen of oral antibiotics, I can usually ward off more severe complications. When in doubt, check with your physician and LE therapist. Repeated bouts of cellulitis can decrease the already compromised lymphatic system and severe cases, or repeat cases, can lead to horrific complications, such as gangrene.
It is important to note that cellulitis is caused by a bacteria and that the infection does NOT have to be in the affected limb. You could have a strep throat and cellulitis could affect your lymphatic system. Good health habits are important in all areas of your life and all parts of your anatomy affect each other.
Lymphedema is a lifelong condition, but is does not have to be debilitating. Understand your condition, work with your lymphedema therapist, stay in good physical condition, by eating right, exercising, avoiding alochol and smoking and make your physician part of YOUR team. It's your body; treat it right and be an informed consumer.
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