What medicine is good for erysipelas when taken orally?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 14, 2024
00:00
00:00

Erysipelas is a bacterial skin disease involving the deeper layers of the skin, caused by Group A streptococcal infection. The bacteria can enter the body through minor wounds in the skin or mucous membranes, and the disease develops when the body's immune resistance is low. Erysipelas has a rapid onset, and its typical symptoms include edematous erythema with clear boundaries, a tense and shiny surface, and rapid expansion to the surrounding areas. There may also be swollen lymph nodes and varying degrees of systemic symptoms, with the condition typically peaking within four to five days. The primary treatment for erysipelas involves anti-inflammatory medications, namely antibiotics. Penicillin is commonly used; if there is an allergy to penicillin, alternatives like erythromycin, azithromycin, roxithromycin, levofloxacin, or ciprofloxacin can be used. Early, adequate, and effective antibiotic treatment can alleviate systemic symptoms, control the spread of inflammation, and prevent recurrence.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
1min 3sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
50sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
51sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
34sec home-news-image

What is the best medicine for erysipelas?

Erysipelas is an infectious disease that commonly affects the lower legs and face. Once erysipelas is diagnosed, penicillin is the recommended treatment. However, if there is an allergy to penicillin, cephalosporins or quinolones can be used as alternatives. Generally, intravenous infusion is necessary; oral administration alone is not effective. Intravenous medication is required to achieve the best anti-inflammatory treatment results.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
55sec home-news-image

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.