What medicine is good for erysipelas when taken orally?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Erysipelas is a bacterial skin disease involving the deeper layers of the skin, caused by Group A streptococcal infection. The bacteria can enter the body through minor wounds in the skin or mucous membranes, and the disease develops when the body's immune resistance is low. Erysipelas has a rapid onset, and its typical symptoms include edematous erythema with clear boundaries, a tense and shiny surface, and rapid expansion to the surrounding areas. There may also be swollen lymph nodes and varying degrees of systemic symptoms, with the condition typically peaking within four to five days. The primary treatment for erysipelas involves anti-inflammatory medications, namely antibiotics. Penicillin is commonly used; if there is an allergy to penicillin, alternatives like erythromycin, azithromycin, roxithromycin, levofloxacin, or ciprofloxacin can be used. Early, adequate, and effective antibiotic treatment can alleviate systemic symptoms, control the spread of inflammation, and prevent recurrence.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How is erysipelas treated?

Erysipelas is a relatively common disease in our clinical practice, characterized by an infection of the reticular lymphatic vessels. The onset of the disease is sudden and develops rapidly, primarily featuring redness, pain, and swelling of the lower limbs. The treatment of erysipelas first involves elevating the affected limb; it is essential to raise the lower limbs above the level of the heart. Subsequently, local wet compresses are applied, commonly using 50% magnesium sulfate. Finally, antibiotic treatment is administered, including intravenous injections of cephalosporins or penicillin-class drugs, along with fluid replenishment and anti-inflammatory treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can I eat wood ear mushrooms with erysipelas?

Patients with erysipelas can eat wood ear mushrooms, and it is recommended to consume more of this food because wood ear mushrooms belong to the vegetable category and contain a large amount of vitamins, fiber, and calcium, which are very helpful for the recovery from erysipelas and can also play a certain detoxifying effect. In addition to wood ear mushrooms, vegetables and fruits such as cabbage, seaweed, apples, oranges, and grapes are also beneficial for the recovery from erysipelas and can be consumed in larger amounts. Paying attention to one's lifestyle habits and bathing frequently can help with the recovery from erysipelas.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas anti-infection treatment methods

The most commonly used treatment method for erysipelas infection is penicillin (to be used under the guidance of a doctor). If the patient is not allergic to penicillin, it can be administered intravenously for significant effects. However, it is important to ensure that the treatment duration is sufficient, generally requiring medication for two weeks for better outcomes and to reduce recurrence, given that erysipelas is highly prone to recurrence. If the patient is allergic to penicillin, it is recommended to use alternative antibiotics such as clindamycin (to be used under the guidance of a doctor). Additionally, patients should minimize walking and elevate the affected limb during treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas is caused by what?

Erysipelas is an acute infectious skin disease caused by Group B beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The bacteria often invade the body through minor skin injuries, causing localized skin redness, swelling, and pain. Some patients also experience systemic symptoms such as fever and headache. Erysipelas commonly occurs on the face and lower legs. Erysipelas on the face is mostly caused by bacterial invasion due to bad habits such as otitis media, dental caries, and nose picking, while erysipelas on the lower legs is often caused by secondary infection from athlete's foot. People with low immune resistance are more prone to erysipelas, so it is crucial to use sensitive antibiotics in adequate amounts early in the treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What medicine is good to take when erysipelas is almost healed?

It is still necessary to continue taking anti-inflammatory medication even if erysipelas is nearly healed, as erysipelas is an inflammatory reaction caused by bacterial infection of the lymphatic vessels. If treated with anti-inflammatory medication, remember that it's important to complete the full course of treatment. If you stop taking some of the anti-inflammatory medication because the erysipelas seems nearly healed and the full course of treatment is not completed, there's a possibility that the erysipelas may recur, which would be counterproductive. Therefore, even if the erysipelas is nearly healed, it is still necessary to take anti-inflammatory medication. Additionally, apart from taking medication, it is important to eat foods rich in protein and vitamins to aid recovery.