Hello Dr. Feigenbaum and Dr. Baraki, I have always been a big fan of Barbell Medicine’s work. Thank you in advance for any reply to help assuage me.
I have a brother in law who is in his mid 30s. He’s dealt with cellulitis on his right calf since he was in his 20s I believe. Three years ago, he had a serious episode and had to be hospitalized for a few days. I don’t know the specifics on how bad it was. I don’t think it spread to his lymphatic and circulatory systems though. During that time, he was on a heavy course of antibiotics. Ever since then, he’s been particularly careful of managing his skin to prevent any cuts; he does have noticeable edema on his right calf nonetheless that persists. Yesterday, he’s experienced some pain on his right calf, and his doctor has prescribed him antibiotics to handle cellulitis concerns early.
I don’t know the strain of the bacteria, but I am aware that antibiotic resistance is a real concern. And I am aware that cellulitis may continue to be a future issue. Besides being on antibiotics, treating it early, and managing the skin for any openings, is there anything else that my brother in law can do? I know that Dr Feigenbaum has mentioned some positive evidence for probiotics on this board. My brother in law is on the heavier side (I would guess about a 38 inch waist), and I do try to convince him to eat and exercise well; I read that those with cellulitis are at a higher risk with a weak immune system.
I am just trying to leave no stone unturned, and would like to see my brother in law healthy.