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Being a bacterial infection, cellulitis causes inflammation of the skin. For lymphedema patients, cellulite is a common occurrence and a complication that they encounter very often. In patients suffering from lymphedema, the swelling leaves the skin stretched and therefore more vulnerable to all kinds of infections. Since the lymphatic system and the body’s immune system are closely related, any damage to the lymphatic system compromises a patient’s immunity to infection. The weakened immune system is unable to defend itself against attacks of infection, leaving the body susceptible to repeated attacks and increased infection. This vicious cycle leads to cellulite in patients with lymphedema.
The main cause of cellulitis is a bacteria known as staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus. Often the point of entry for bacteria is a small cut, mosquito bite, or bruise. The most common symptoms would be swelling and pain in the area, skin rash, fever, chills, and the area feels hot to the touch. However, not all symptoms may be present at the same time. Each individual will experience a difference in the appearance of symptoms. Even when cellulite recurs in a patient, it may look different from the previous episode. The usual place of appearance is the legs, but it can also affect the face or arms and the scalp.
Treatment for cellulite is in the form of antibiotics. If the treatment is quick, the cellulite subsides in a week. However, in some patients with lymphedema, the cellulitis can be so severe that they may need to stay in a hospital to receive intravenous antibiotics. In fact, this could be the worst experience for a lymphedema patient and the cause of the most frequent visits to the hospital. Timely treatment is essential to avoid complications or further deterioration of the condition.
During the cellulite attack, the patient may have to discontinue lymphedema therapy. Until the infection clears, manual lymphatic drainage sessions should be discontinued. The compression bandage should be discontinued and compression garments should not be worn during the period. As much as possible, the patient is advised to keep the affected limb elevated. The course of antibiotics prescribed for treatment must be completed even if the symptoms seem to have disappeared.
To prevent cellulite, lymphedema patients should take extra precautions. A cut or bruise should not be ignored and should be treated immediately. Cleaning the wound and applying an antibiotic cream is the best method. Dressing the wound promotes healing, although the dressing must be changed daily. Patients should also be vigilant for fungal infections of the feet. Skin care is very important as it helps keep infections at bay. General precautions like these are the best way for lymphedema patients to prevent cellulite. Other simple precautions include wearing gloves when handling detergents, using sharp tools, and gardening. Lymphedema patients should avoid walking barefoot and avoid sharp objects. Such simple precautions will go a long way in preventing complications in patients with lymphedema.