Cellulitis is the most common complication of lymphoedema, but the condition can also cause psychological issues. Many people with lymphoedema experience repeated episodes of cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin (dermis) and the layer of fat and soft tissues (the subcutaneous tissues) that lie underneath the skin.
Symptoms of cellulitis include:
Cellulitis can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics (medicines to treat bacterial infections) lymphoedema.
Living with a chronic (long-term) condition that affects ones appearance can cause a great deal of distress. Lymphoedema can cause increased distress because many people will develop the condition after treatment for cancer. It serves as a constant reminder of having had cancer.