Ever watched a horror film featuring an alien invasion? Now, imagine a similar invasion, but this time, it’s right under your skin. Welcome to the peculiar world of cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that's not a fad but a reality for over 14 million people in the U.S each year. The signs of this unwelcome guest include skin redness, pain, warmth, and if things get real grim, you might experience blisters, nausea, fever, or even confusion. Spooky, right?

You probably wouldn’t diagnose and treat a demon possession yourself, so don’t even think about handling cellulitis on your own. The moment you suspect its presence, haul ass to your doctor or dermatologist. And brace yourself - you'll most likely leave with a prescription of oral antibiotics or in severe cases, a new-found fondness for hospitals, as intravenous antibiotics are required.

Now let’s dissect this invader. Cellulitis is usually called into your skin’s open-house party by Staph or Strep bacteria. These party crashers innocently live on your skin, but once they find a break in the barrier, they exploit it, giving rise to infections, including cellulitis.

Despite your skin's natural armor, even something as innocuous as a bug bite or scrape can open the door to cellulitis if the circumstances align. And since these bacteria are invisible, a minor wound could blow up into a major problem faster than a gremlin in water. Increased risk factors of this infection are inadequate wound cleaning, a weak immune system, reduced blood flow or impaired lymphatic drainage in the infected area.

Now before you confuse cellulitis with cellulite and start panicking about every dimple on your skin, know that cellulite is just a cosmetic concern. Cellulitis on the other hand, is an unglamorous illness, often showing up as a warm, red, tender, and swollen patch of skin.

Having cellulitis even once ups your chances of having it again. But don't fret - by precisely following your doctor’s instructions, reducing skin injuries like some badass warrior, and taking care of wounds properly, this risk can be cut down.

Interestingly, cellulitis isn't the zombie virus from The Walking Dead. It's generally not contagious, unless there is direct contact with an open wound. It can pop up anywhere on your body, usually zooming in on one side at a time.

Left unchecked, cellulitis can progress into your personal 'Final Destination' escalator scene, with possible dire consequences, including sepsis or death. And just like in the movies, the signs of a bad ending (sepsis) include extremely low blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.

Lastly, if you think getting cute ink is risk-free, think again. Tattoos can also open the skin's door to cellulitis. So ensure you’re going to a professional studio where they value your skin as much as their art.