How long will it take for erysipelas to heal?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 05, 2024
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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 Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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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.

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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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Erysipelas is caused by what?

Erysipelas is an acute infectious skin disease caused by Group B beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The bacteria often invade the body through minor skin injuries, causing localized skin redness, swelling, and pain. Some patients also experience systemic symptoms such as fever and headache. Erysipelas commonly occurs on the face and lower legs. Erysipelas on the face is mostly caused by bacterial invasion due to bad habits such as otitis media, dental caries, and nose picking, while erysipelas on the lower legs is often caused by secondary infection from athlete's foot. People with low immune resistance are more prone to erysipelas, so it is crucial to use sensitive antibiotics in adequate amounts early in the treatment.

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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
Dermatology
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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.