Have you ever noticed how your skin feels more irritated, sticky, or just more 'vulnerable' during summer? From heat rashes to insect bites, the warmer months don’t go easy on our skin. However, for people living with lymphoedema, this season brings more than just discomfort, triggering painful infections like cellulitis. With higher temperatures creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, even a tiny cut or bug bite can spiral into something serious.
We spoke to Dr Manokaran, MBBS, MD General, MCh Plastic Surgery, Medicine, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, about why cellulitis cases spike in summer, especially in those with lymphoedema, and what you can do to protect your skin before trouble starts.
What is Cellulitis?
“Cellulitis is an infection of the skin, plus subcutaneous tissues, which are the tissues lying beneath the skin, that commonly affects the lower leg, along with other body parts that are already inflamed. If there’s any cracked or ruptured skin, the bacteria can seamlessly enter the body. The most common bacteria that enter are Staphylococcus aureus and group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, and people of any age group are prone to this condition,” explained Dr Manokaran.
Causes of Cellulitis in Summer
The cases of cellulitis rise significantly during the summertime. “During this time, the high temperature creates favourable surroundings for the bacteria to multiply and grow. It can quickly enter the person’s body if there are any scratches, insect bites, or cuts. The skin barrier can weaken if the individual already has athlete's foot or eczema, which makes them more prone to cellulitis,” explained Dr Manokaran.
According to Epidemiology and Infection, two large studies from the United States reported that there were 35–66% more cases of adult cellulitis in July than in February.
Lymphoedema and Cellulitis
“Intensive swelling in the arms and legs, caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid in the subcutaneous tissues, leads to a condition known as lymphoedema. This increases the risk of developing cellulitis. The lymphatic system, which combats infections, is compromised in lymphoedema patients, making them more susceptible,” said Dr Manokaran.
Complications Due To Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema patients are vulnerable to cellulitis because the fluid accumulation in the subcutaneous tissues can cause skin stretching, making it more prone to breaks or cracks. This facilitates easy bacterial entry into the body.
In addition to swelling and redness, symptoms may include chills, fever, pain, and warmth in the affected area. Delayed treatment can lead to rapid spread of the infection, potentially causing sepsis and multiple organ failure.
Also Read: Lymphoedema After Breast Cancer Treatment: Expert Advice On Managing The Hidden Side Effects
Prevention and Management
Even if treated once, the recurrence rate of the condition in the same area is high. However, there are certain steps to follow to prevent the condition.
- Skin injuries or cuts: Any skin injury, whether cuts, bee stings, scrapes, sunburns, or burns, can make an easy way for bacteria to enter the skin. Hence, be careful while performing physical activities.
- Immediate wound treatment: If the skin is injured, immediately wash it with water, cover it with a bandage after applying an antibiotic ointment, and repeat this process a few times until the wound heals.
- Moisturised skin: Keeping your skin clean and moisturised will wash away the bacteria that cause cellulitis.
- Immediate treatments of existing conditions: Athlete’s foot and Intertrigo contribute to cellulitis. Redness and soreness between the toes are the symptoms of an athlete's foot.
For lymphoedema patients, athlete's foot is a significant contributing factor to cellulitis. Compression bandages can improve blood flow and reduce swelling, but be cautious not to wrap them too tightly, as this may cause constriction. Elevating the affected leg can also help reduce oedema.
Managing lymphoedema can make the individual less prone to developing cellulitis. Diabetes, along with lymphoedema can be more prone to cellulitis and its complications. Immunosuppressed patients also should avoid this as they are also prone to cellulitis.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]