The fastest method to treat erysipelas

Written by Liu Jing
Dermatology
Updated on February 08, 2025
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The fastest and most effective method for the treatment of erysipelas is systemic medication. After a penicillin skin test, administer intravenous penicillin antibiotics. If the patient is allergic to penicillin, switch to clindamycin injections for intravenous infusion. The treatment course is around 10-14 days, and requires bed rest with elevation of the lower limbs.

Examine whether the primary lesions are combined with tinea faciei or tinea pedis, avoid picking the nose and feet, which can cause skin trauma and other inducement factors, and enhance skin cleanliness. Apply magnesium sulfate injection solution externally to the affected area, and treat the symptoms of the primary lesions, such as applying ketoconazole cream to the lesions caused by tinea pedis.

(Please follow medical advice when using medication.)

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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
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Is erysipelas ointment generally available in pharmacies?

After suffering from erysipelas, the ointments chosen are generally available in pharmacies. Erysipelas is a bacterial infectious skin disease. Usually, some topical anti-inflammatory ointments can be chosen. These ointments are relatively common, so they are generally available in pharmacies. Therefore, after suffering from erysipelas, it is important to pay attention to personal hygiene, avoid scratching the affected area with hands to prevent further bacterial infections of the skin, and maintain a light diet.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas is caused by what?

The fundamental cause of erysipelas is mainly due to a streptococcal infection of the lymphatic vessels, causing acute non-purulent inflammation. Patients with erysipelas often may have underlying conditions such as athlete's foot, ulcers, or other infectious foci. Erysipelas is prone to develop secondary to ulcers, trauma, or some purulent infections, spreading directly from these primary diseases through the skin, mucous membranes, lymphatic channels, or hematogenous invasion.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas Complications and Treatment

Erysipelas is a disease that can lead to several complications. First, erysipelas may cause nephritis, and it is suggested to use medications that treat nephritis. Second, erysipelas can also lead to subcutaneous abscesses. If a subcutaneous abscess occurs, in addition to anti-inflammatory treatments, it is suggested to combine this with incision and drainage. Third, erysipelas may also cause sepsis. If sepsis occurs, symptoms may become systemic, such as fever, chills, and high fever, requiring symptomatic treatment and active management.