Can erysipelas be completely cured?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on June 13, 2025

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Erysipelas is curable. As a common skin disease, erysipelas is mainly caused by bacterial infection of the lymphatic vessels, leading to an inflammatory skin condition that requires timely anti-inflammatory treatment. Anti-inflammatory treatment involves killing the bacteria, and the duration of treatment must be sufficient to cure it completely. Moreover, erysipelas is recurrent, meaning if the erysipelas heals and then the body's immunity weakens again, it could potentially lead to reinfection by bacteria. Therefore, it is crucial to treat erysipelas promptly.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

36sec

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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

51sec

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Can erysipelas patients be active and move around?

Whether someone with erysipelas can engage in physical activity depends on the severity and location of the erysipelas. If the erysipelas is on the leg and the condition is severe, it is advisable to rest in bed and avoid standing or moving around. However, if the erysipelas is mild and appears on the face, light activity is permissible. Once diagnosed with erysipelas, it is important to rest, improve nutrition, and actively treat the underlying condition to facilitate recovery. The precautions include the following: rest in bed to avoid fatigue and exposure to cold; and while treating the affected area, consider supportive physical therapies such as ultraviolet light or infrared radiation to accelerate the healing of the skin.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

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What should erysipelas patients pay attention to in their diet?

Patients with erysipelas need to pay special attention to their diet during illness, as their body's resistance and immunity are relatively low. It is advised that they eat more green vegetables and fruits, such as leafy greens, carrots, apples, pears, and grapes, and avoid spicy and irritating foods such as barbecue, spicy hot pot, onions, ginger, and garlic.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

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What Chinese medicine is used for erysipelas?

Erysipelas is mostly caused by bacterial infection of the lymphatic vessels. In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, treatment can involve the use of herbs that disperse wind, clear heat, and detoxify; herbs that clear heat, promote diuresis, and detoxify; and herbs that cool the blood, detoxify, clear the heart, and open the orifices. During the treatment of erysipelas, in addition to Chinese medicine, it is suggested to combine some Western medical treatments, which can lead to faster improvement. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

55sec

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Can erysipelas recur?

Erysipelas is a disease that can recur. Once erysipelas occurs, it should be taken seriously, especially in people with lowered immunity such as the elderly. If not treated promptly or if the condition is not taken seriously, it can lead to sepsis and endanger life. Frequent recurrences are called chronic recurrent erysipelas. Due to the repeated attacks of erysipelas, local secondary lymphedema occurs, and after elephantiasis forms, it becomes very difficult to completely cure. Therefore, patients infected with erysipelas should seek medical attention in a timely manner, follow the doctor's advice, and should not think that skin diseases are not serious and that merely applying ointment will suffice, as this can delay the condition and lead to serious complications.