Best treatment method for erysipelas

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Erysipelas is an inflammatory skin condition caused by infection with hemolytic streptococcus. It primarily presents with edematous erythema on the skin, which is clearly demarcated, surface tightness, burning sensation, accompanied by significant pain, and swelling of the local lymph nodes. The best treatment for erysipelas is the preferential use of systemic antibiotics, with penicillin as the first choice. Patients allergic to penicillin can be treated with erythromycin or azithromycin, in combination with topical applications, such as wet compresses with Isatis tinctoria solution or Mupirocin ointment. Additionally, it is important to elevate the affected limb regularly, and abscesses forming in the area may require incision and drainage.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What medicine should be taken for erysipelas?

Erysipelas belongs to capillary lymphangitis, mainly caused by infection with hemolytic streptococcus. It mainly presents as pain in the lower leg and the appearance of red streaks on the lower leg, which can be accompanied by local swelling. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to sepsis. Once erysipelas is diagnosed, if medication is recommended, anti-inflammatory drugs such as penicillin can be taken. It is best to treat with intravenous penicillin for more than 7 days. After the symptoms of erysipelas have completely disappeared, it is advisable to continue using the medication for about 3 days, after which medication can be stopped. During the treatment period, it is necessary to avoid alcohol and refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate blindly.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
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What ointment is used for erysipelas?

Erysipelas is a common skin disease caused by an infection of hemolytic streptococcus, primarily infecting the lymphatic vessels. To treat erysipelas, it is recommended to use topical antibiotic ointments. It is important to maintain personal hygiene, avoid spicy and irritating foods, abstain from alcohol and smoking, get plenty of rest, avoid staying up late, and consume more soy products, vegetables, and fruits.

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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.

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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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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.