How to quickly reduce swelling from erysipelas?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on March 11, 2025
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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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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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How long will it take for erysipelas to heal?

The typical treatment duration for erysipelas is 10 to 14 days. If it is the first outbreak of erysipelas and the treatment is not timely or thorough, or if the treatment duration is insufficient, it is very susceptible to recurrent erysipelas. Treatment for recurrent erysipelas is more challenging, and it may take about three weeks for some people to recover. Especially in elderly patients with swelling in the lower limbs, it is difficult to completely reduce the swelling, which can lead to long-term conditions like elephantiasis. No matter how long any medication is administered, it cannot be completely eliminated, so it is crucial to start treatment gradually and by courses at the onset of the disease. Penicillin is the first choice of medication. For patients allergic to penicillin, cephalosporins or macrolide drugs are the alternatives.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What does it mean when erysipelas causes the skin to break and discharge fluid?

Erysipelas with ruptured skin and oozing fluid primarily occurs due to a lack of timely treatment after the onset of erysipelas. The surrounding skin becomes damaged and starts to discharge fluid, but this "flow" is not actual water; it is various liquids. This situation results from skin ruptures where inflammatory substances and pus slowly seep out, creating a flow of fluid. When erysipelas occurs, it is crucial to treat it proactively under the guidance of a doctor using anti-inflammatory medications. Locally, mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream can be applied. Oral medications can include erythromycin dispersible tablets and cephalosporin antibiotics, following the doctor's advice. (Medicate under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
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What foods are good to eat for erysipelas?

Erysipelas is usually caused by a bacterial infection in the lymphatic vessels. Infant patients should maintain a light and nutritious diet, avoiding irritant foods. Details are as follows: First, one can eat light and easily digestible foods, such as celery, which have the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying. Patients can use these in moderation. Second, avoid spicy and greasy foods, strong tea, and coffee, all of which can be irritating. When the body is weak, it is advisable to avoid these. Similarly, lamb and leeks, which have a warming and tonifying effect, should also be used cautiously to prevent exacerbating the symptoms of erysipelas due to excessive internal heat. Third, consuming foods rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, such as fresh vegetables, lean meats, and eggs, can enhance the body's resistance and have an anti-disease effect.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
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Does erysipelas cause fever?

Erysipelas is a disease that can cause symptoms such as fever because it is a bacterial infectious disease. It may cause various systemic symptoms, including fever, chills, high temperature, and other cold-like symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to receive timely treatment after contracting erysipelas, using anti-inflammatory medications to eliminate the bacteria, enhancing one's resistance, and getting plenty of rest.