Complications

Serious complications can arise in rare cases. They include:

• Permanent swelling: Without treatment, the person may develop permanent swelling in the affected area.
• Blood infection and sepsis: This life threatening condition results from bacteria entering the bloodstream, and it requires rapid treatment. Symptoms of sepsis include a fever, a rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness when standing up, reduced urine flow, and skin that is sweaty, pale, and cold.
• Infection in other regions: In very rare cases, bacteria that have caused cellulitis may spread and infect other parts of the body, including the muscles, bones, or heart valves. If this happens, the person needs immediate treatment.