The skin is our body’s largest organ, but it’s also among the most sensitive. Rashes and discolored patches typically occur due to allergies and temporary irritation. They usually disappear on their own within a few days without further complications. However, some skin conditions, like lymphangitis, are signs of a medical crisis and warn you that the body needs immediate treatment.
Keep reading to learn more about lymphangitis and why you should never ignore it.
The Skin, Lymphangitis, and Sepsis
When viruses penetrate the lymphatic channels, a red mark forms on the skin. As the infection worsens, the redness spreads. Bacteria or viruses could invade the channels through open wounds, but they can also develop from an untreated infection.
People with diabetes, steroid users, and immunocompromised patients are more prone to lymphangitis. However, the red streak may also occur due to malignant tumors and Chron’s disease.
If the redness begins to spread rapidly, there’s a high chance it’s an indicator of sepsis: a potentially fatal infection that attacks the entire body. Other common symptoms of sepsis include pain when touching the affected area, pus leaking from the lymph nodes, and a persistent fever.
Patients who notice any of these symptoms should contact emergency services immediately. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical treatment to prevent the organs from shutting down.
Seek Help and Recover Quickly
Unlike common skin changes, growing red streaks are concerning, often indicating dangerous underlying conditions like sepsis. The good news is that treatment usually consists of antibiotics, and most patients make a full recovery with no further complications.
