Symptoms of Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection which takes place on the dermis layer of the skin tissues. Usually caused by the streptococcus bacteria, this infection can start as a small wound, insect bite, cut, or a dry patch on the skin and swell up in a few hours. The legs, anus, and the face are the areas that are most affected by cellulitis in children. As an immediate symptom of the infection, the affected area my turn burning red with different size streaks and the skin will turn tender and painful. The child can also suffer from fever and weakness with a constantly nauseating feeling. Depending on the area cellulitis has infected, there will be a loss of hair in that region and it will also cause headache and body ache. In some cases, it will develop blisters and swollen glands (swollen lymph nodes) around the region that it has infected.

Treatment for Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a condition which can grow severely and should be attended to by a medical practitioner if needed, though there are many home remedies to treat the same. Once you notice something like an injury or a sore starting to look like cellulitis, clean the area with warm water, apply a hot compress and keep the affected zone elevated. This will ensure that the infection does not spread further. Later, pack some ice in a towel and dab it over the infected area. This will help in lessening the effects of the infection immediately. Also, while trying to take a bath, try to give a shower to the child instead of bathing him in a bathtub to reduce the chances of infection from spreading.

Home remedies for Cellulitis

Garlic is one of the most effective ancient herbal antibacterial solutions. You can smash some pieces of garlic cloves and put the pulp on the infected region or let your child eat three cloves of garlic on a daily basis till the infection is cured.  Another herb that can be used to apply over the skin is called cleaver. Chewing cleaver can also help in reducing abscesses and swollen glands. Echinacea, thyme, lavender, and bergamot also contain antibacterial properties. Extract oils from these herbs and apply over the infected area to help reducing the infection and abscesses. Also, you can use a paste of water and goldenseal (antibacterial herb) to apply over the infection as it can reduce swelling and bring relief from redness and pain. Prevent cellulitis by making sure that your child’s cuts and wounds do not go untreated.