Q: A number of years ago my husband was diagnosed with cellulitis. He suffered with this for 11 years, seeing at least four GPs and two infectious disease specialists in the process. The treatment was always antibiotics, the final one being Vancomycin, which he was given at least twice. Finally he consented to go to a clinic in New Orleans where a specialist told us we needed to look at prevention, not cure. She gave him a prescription for Bactrim in case he should need it and sent him to a dermatologist who told him that every day he should soak cotton balls in vinegar and insert them between his toes for about 20 minutes and then dry his feet with a blow dryer. She suggested he buy socks to wick away the moisture that allowed his skin to crack and bacteria to enter.
It worked well. The dermatologist then suggested he find another dermatologist nearer our home who could continue his care. He did and that person told him to use a different product that was horrible! His skin dried up, cracked, and formed a hard crust. So, my husband went back to the care recommended by the first dermatologist and within a few days his feet were healthy again. As long as he treats his feet every night, he has no problem but if he neglects treatment for even three or four days, the cellulitis flares up again. He gets chills and a fever and is so wiped out he sleeps for about 12 hours straight. He then takes the Bactrim until it gets rid of the infection.
I hope this remedy we found will help others.
A: And, I’m sure it will. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can have potentially serious consequences. The two most common types of bacteria causing the condition are staphylococcus and streptococcus. As you have discovered over the years, the signs and symptoms of this infection may include a fever, pain, swelling, redness, and more. A more serious staph infection can also occur and is known as methicillin-resistant staphyloccus aureus or MRSA for short. Fortunately, he avoided that.
Individuals at an increased risk for cellulitis include those being diagnosed with a compromised immune system, having lymphedema, a past history if cellulitis, injuries that cause breaks in the skin that may allow bacteria in, obesity, and injectors of illegal drugs. Diagnosis may be made through a visual examination or lab testing and possible wound cultures.
As you have also determined, treatment is in the form of a prescription antibiotic that shoule reveal improvement within three days. The type of antibiotic used generally covers both common forms of bacteria and will be determined by the prescribing physician.
Prevention is critical in order to avoid re-infection. The wound site should be thoroughly cleansed on a daily basis with soap and water. If an antibiotic cream or ointment has been prescribed, it should be applied according to the directions provided. A daily inspection of the wound site should be performed and if there are signs of re-infection, the attending physician should be advised. Keeping the skin properly lubricated will keep it softened and less likely to crack.
Your husband has done all the right things and truly appears to be on top of things. Congratulations to you both and thank you for sharing your interesting story that is sure to help others.
