Symptoms of Infection in an Arm or Leg

Infections can occur without an injury. Symptoms of infection include:

• Increased pain, tenderness, swelling, redness, or warmth around the affected area.
• Red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Drainage of pus from the area.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.
• Fever.

Minor infections can develop into more serious problems, such as:

• Pus-filled pocket ( abscess ) under the skin.
• Serious skin infection ( cellulitis ).
• Joint infection ( septic arthritis ).
• Bursa infection ( septic bursitis ).
• Bone infection ( osteomyelitis ).
• An infection of the entire body (sepsis).

Prompt medical treatment of an infection can prevent serious complications.