Cellulitis in Children Health Article
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Cellulitis is an infection of the deep layers of skin. If not treated, cellulitis can get into the bloodstream and lymph nodes and spread throughout the body, causing very serious illness. Because of this danger, it is important for a child with cellulitis to get medical attention right away.
What Causes Cellulitis?
A cut, bite, or scratch, even a small one, can become infected by bacteria (germs). If this infection spreads to deeper layers of skin, it can become very serious. Cellulitis can affect any part of the body, but is often found on the face, arms, and legs. It cannot spread from person to person.
Symptoms of Cellulitis
Call your doctor right away if your child has any of these symptoms:
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An area of skin that swells and is tender, painful, or warm
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Redness, bruises, blisters, rash, or red streaks on the skin that extend from a cut, scratch, or bite
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Fever over 100.3°F
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Weakness or exhaustion
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Headache, muscle aches, or joint stiffness
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Hair loss around the infected area
Treating Cellulitis
Cellulitis must be treated by a health professional.
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Your child will be given a 10-day course of antibiotics. Be sure your child takes every dose on time. All the medication must be finished, even if the child feels better.
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Your doctor may recommend acetaminophen to help relieve pain.
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If instructed, have the child keep the affected area still and elevated above the level of the heart to reduce swelling and keep the infection from spreading. Your doctor will tell you if this is necessary and for how long.
The symptoms of cellulitis usually go away after a few days of treatment. For severe cellulitis, treatment must be done in the hospital. There, your child can receive antibiotics and fluids through an IV (intravenous) line. Staff at the hospital may put warm, wet dressings on the area. They will keep a close watch to make sure your child is comfortable and gets plenty of rest.