What Causes Cellulitis With HS?

Cellulitis happens when bacteria (usually staphylococcus or streptococcus) enter the skin. Any break — even a tiny one — in the skin can lead to this infection.

People with HS can develop cellulitis because they often have open sores on or near their abscesses (inflamed pockets of fluid-filled skin). These areas can provide entry points for infection-causing bacteria.

Cellulitis infections go beyond the surface level of the skin. Tunnels (also known as sinus tracts), lesions, and abscesses in people with HS can provide bacteria the perfect opportunity to go deep into the skin and cause a serious infection.

However, just because HS lesions contain pus or bacteria doesn’t mean they’re infected. Open wounds increase the risk of infection, but HS tunnels and drainage don’t always lead to cellulitis.

Symptoms of Cellulitis vs. HS Symptoms

HS causes painful nodules in areas of the body with sweat glands, such as the armpits and genitals. Some symptoms of cellulitis and HS overlap, so it can be hard to know the difference.

HS causes pain, swelling, discoloration, and skin tenderness. People with HS have to monitor any flare-ups, abscesses, or boils carefully and keep in mind what’s normal for them.

If you have HS, you should also watch for several particular symptoms that may point to cellulitis. If your skin looks or feels more severe or painful than usual, tell your doctor. It’s always better to ask for help you don’t need than to potentially end up with a serious infection.

Extremely Tender Skin

Tender skin can be a warning sign that cellulitis or an HS flare may be coming.

People living with HS experience painful cysts on their skin. Cellulitis can also cause pain and tenderness. With either condition, it may feel impossible to wear even light clothing or feel minimal friction against the skin.

Streaks or Dimpling

Cellulitis can cause streaks on the skin. These discolored lines may radiate from the main rash when nearby lymphatic vessels become inflamed, which is called lymphangitis. However, since streaks don’t always happen, their absence can’t rule out cellulitis.

In addition, cellulitis may affect the skin’s texture. Affected areas can have pitting or dimpling, like an orange peel. Although HS symptoms vary from person to person, dimpling isn’t considered a common sign of HS.

Swelling and Discoloration

People with HS are no strangers to swelling and discoloration. Your skin may become warm and red or discolored, depending on your normal skin tone. But if the affected area is spreading, you should seek medical attention.

Doctors and dermatology specialists recommend drawing a circle around a discolored, swollen area when you first notice it. If the border of the affected area continues expanding beyond the circle, the cause could be cellulitis or another issue.

Fever

An elevated temperature is possible during an HS flare since HS is driven by inflammation. But a fever is also a common sign of cellulitis and other infections.

If you have a fever, chills, or rapidly spreading redness or discolored skin, contact a healthcare professional right away.