Erysipelas is caused by what?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 15, 2024
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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 causes erysipelas to blister?

Erysipelas symptoms with skin peeling are likely due to pathogens entering the skin, causing complications such as eczema. Moreover, because eczema tends to itch, patients often scratch, causing skin damage. Skin damage and injuries might lead to symptoms of skin peeling. Therefore, it is crucial to actively cooperate with treatment after contracting erysipelas and not to delay the condition.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to quickly reduce swelling from erysipelas?

Erysipelas, this skin disease especially prone to cause symptoms such as swelling of both lower limbs. To quickly reduce swelling, it is recommended to first use some anti-inflammatory drugs for wet compresses. Secondly, it is advised to elevate the affected limbs during treatment to help reduce swelling. Finally, avoid eating foods that may cause edema, and abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol during treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erysipelas be incised and drained?

Erysipelas is different from many infectious diseases in that it should not be incised and drained. Clinically, it is contraindicated to perform incision and drainage on erysipelas because it is an inflammatory non-suppurative infection. As it does not suppurate, incision and drainage would not be effective and might even lead to secondary infections, worsening the condition. Therefore, not only is incision and drainage not recommended for erysipelas, but it is also contraindicated. The treatment of erysipelas should focus on anti-inflammatory methods, possibly involving oral or intravenous medication. (Please take medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What causes erysipelas?

Erysipelas is an acute inflammation of the skin and reticular lymphatic vessels. The onset of erysipelas is due to hemolytic streptococci invading the skin and mucosal reticular lymphatic vessels through small wounds in the skin mucosa. Erysipelas commonly occurs on the lower limbs and face, progressing rather quickly, with seldom tissue necrosis, and a tendency for recurrent episodes. The local symptoms include patchy erythema, bright red color, lighter in the center, with clear and slightly raised edges.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What should I do if erysipelas recurs?

The likelihood of erysipelas relapse is very high. If erysipelas recurs, it indicates that there is another bacterial infection and the body's immune system is weak. Therefore, it is recommended to treat with anti-inflammatory drugs, which can be administered either by intravenous infusion or orally. At the same time, it is essential to enhance one's immunity. During the period of erysipelas illness, it is important to get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and eat nutritious foods.