Perianal streptococcal cellulitis: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for severe drowsiness, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, pale or mottled skin, or rapidly spreading redness accompanied by severe illness.
These findings are not typical of uncomplicated perianal streptococcal cellulitis.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent same-day care if there is:
Fever with increasing redness or pain
Redness spreading quickly beyond the perianal area
A painful lump, marked swelling, or pus
Difficulty passing urine or stool
Repeated vomiting, poor fluid intake, or signs of dehydration
Worsening symptoms despite antibiotic treatment
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a medical appointment soon for a bright-red, painful rash around the anus, especially when there is pain with bowel movements, blood-streaked stool, discharge, or persistent itching.
These symptoms should not be assumed to be simple irritation.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Perianal streptococcal cellulitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.