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Is MRSA and cellulitis the same thing?
Cellulitis is a deep skin infection caused by staph or streptococcus (strep) bacteria, including MRSA. Cellulitis leads to redness, swelling, pain and heat in the skin, sometimes in a large, diffuse area.
How dangerous is cellulitis?
Complications of cellulitis can be very serious. These can include extensive tissue damage and tissue death (gangrene). The infection can also spread to the blood, bones, lymph system, heart, or nervous system. These infections can lead to amputation, shock, or even death.
Is MRSA cellulitis serious?
MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a staph bacterial infection that resists many types of antibiotics. If it isn’t treated, it can turn into sepsis. When it’s on your skin, MRSA doesn’t often cause serious problems. But if it gets into your body through a wound, it can.
What is the difference between cellulitis and staph infection?
The signs of cellulitis are those of any inflammation — redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. Any skin sore or ulcer that has these signs may be developing cellulitis. If the staph infection spreads, the person may develop a fever, sometimes with chills and sweats, as well as swelling in the area.
Is cellulitis MRSA contagious?
Anyone can get MRSA. Infections range from mild to very serious, even life- threatening. MRSA is contagious and can be spread to other people through skin-to- skin contact. If one person in a family is infected with MRSA, the rest of the family may get it.
When does cellulitis get worse?
However, worsening symptoms can also be a sign that a different antibiotic is necessary. Call your doctor if your pain increases or you notice the red area growing or becoming more swollen. You should also call your doctor if you develop a fever or other new symptoms.
When does cellulitis become an emergency?
When to see a doctor It’s important to identify and treat cellulitis early because the condition can spread rapidly throughout your body. Seek emergency care if: You have a red, swollen, tender rash or a rash that’s changing rapidly. You have a fever.