erysipelas skin disease symptoms

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Erysipelas is caused by hemolytic streptococcus. It commonly occurs on the dorsum of the foot, the lower leg, and the face, and is usually unilateral. The onset of the disease is generally acute, with typical skin symptoms mainly presenting as edematous erythema, with clear boundaries, tense and shiny surfaces. The skin lesions can rapidly expand outward, accompanied by various degrees of systemic toxic symptoms or lymph node enlargement. The condition often peaks within four to five days, and after subsiding, the affected skin areas may have mild pigmentation and desquamation.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What foods should be avoided with erysipelas?

There are many foods that should be avoided in the case of erysipelas. Firstly, it is advised to avoid spicy and stimulating foods; for example, smoking and alcohol must be refrained from, as well as spicy peppers, garlic, onions, and ginger, which are all considered stimulating and should be avoided. Secondly, after contracting erysipelas, one should avoid certain aggravating foods such as shrimp and sea fish. It is better to eat more foods that help enhance the immune system, and those rich in protein and vitamins.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How many days does it take for penicillin to take effect on erysipelas?

Erysipelas is treated with penicillin, generally requiring about ten days to take effect, and medication should not be discontinued even after ten days. This is because this period is just when the drug starts to work and relieve the disease; it still requires about another seven days of usage to completely fight the bacteria and avoid the possibility of recurrence. Erysipelas has a high recurrence rate, so it is crucial to ensure thorough treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erysipelas heal on its own?

Erysipelas is a disease caused by bacterial infection, primarily by the erysipelas streptococcus. Generally, erysipelas is unlikely to heal on its own. Once infected with erysipelas, it indicates that our body's resistance is relatively low. It is recommended to eat more foods rich in vitamins and proteins during this time. You should avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, and consuming overly spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, onions, ginger, and garlic. Also, try to avoid foods that might induce further issues, such as seafood, mangoes, etc.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
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What medicine is good for erysipelas when taken orally?

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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What department should I go to for erysipelas?

Patients with erysipelas can consult the surgical department, because the predisposing factors before the onset of erysipelas may include external otitis, surgical wounds, skin infections, etc. Moreover, after the onset of erysipelas, it may cause persistent hard edema, which necessitates surgical intervention. Secondly, patients can also see the department of infectious diseases, as erysipelas is an infectious disease. Lastly, patients with erysipelas can consult the dermatology department, because erysipelas is an infectious skin disease that belongs to lymphangitis.