Cellulitis Lymphedema Patients



People suffering from lymphedema may experience cellulitis at some point in their lives and many would say that it is the worst nightmare that any lymphedema patient can face. Numerous causes could prompt an attack of cellulitis, ranging from a small cut or bruise to an insect bite or sunburn. The treatment may involve a strong dosage of antibiotics and even a stay in the hospital for 8-10 days. Almost all patients make a full recovery with the proper treatment, but if the problem is ignored, it could have serious consequences.

Cellulitis is a skin infection that is caused by a pathogen and lymphedema patients are prone to the infection because their immune system has slowed down. The initial signs that the person notices are redness, increased body temperature, chills, pain and swelling. Generally, the patient describes ‘flu-like’ symptoms. Red patches and streaks on the skin are known as erythema and the warm skin sensations are described as hyperthermia. The person may have a high fever with chills. Loss of appetite, irritability, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and vomiting are some of the other indications of cellulitis lymphedema patients.

The symptoms of cellulitis must not be ignored, especially by people suffering from lymphedema. The doctor must be consulted and treatment started immediately. A 10-day course of antibiotics usually helps to clear up the infection. Till the cellulitis clears up, the patient is required to avoid the lymphoedema therapy like manual lymph drainage or massage. The compression garment should not be worn, but the affected limb should be kept elevated for fluid movement in the right direction.

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November 28th, 2009 in anemia | tags: , , , , , , ,

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