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Erysipelas
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.
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.
Best treatment method for erysipelas
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.
How is erysipelas treated?
Erysipelas is a relatively common disease in our clinical practice, characterized by an infection of the reticular lymphatic vessels. The onset of the disease is sudden and develops rapidly, primarily featuring redness, pain, and swelling of the lower limbs. The treatment of erysipelas first involves elevating the affected limb; it is essential to raise the lower limbs above the level of the heart. Subsequently, local wet compresses are applied, commonly using 50% magnesium sulfate. Finally, antibiotic treatment is administered, including intravenous injections of cephalosporins or penicillin-class drugs, along with fluid replenishment and anti-inflammatory treatment.