What is the cause of erysipelas infection?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 16, 2024
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Erysipelas is a superficial lymphatic infection induced by Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus infection, often entering through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. Athlete's foot and dermatitis are often the main causes of erysipelas on the lower legs and face. Malnutrition, excessive drinking, and scratching can also trigger the disease. Clinically, erysipelas manifests as well-demarcated edematous bright red patches on the lower legs or face, with a tense and shiny surface that can even form blisters. The local skin temperature is elevated, and there is tenderness and pressure pain, often accompanied by fever, a burning pain sensation, and nearby lymph nodes may be enlarged.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erysipelas be incised and drained?

Erysipelas is different from many infectious diseases in that it should not be incised and drained. Clinically, it is contraindicated to perform incision and drainage on erysipelas because it is an inflammatory non-suppurative infection. As it does not suppurate, incision and drainage would not be effective and might even lead to secondary infections, worsening the condition. Therefore, not only is incision and drainage not recommended for erysipelas, but it is also contraindicated. The treatment of erysipelas should focus on anti-inflammatory methods, possibly involving oral or intravenous medication. (Please take medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erysipelas heal on its own?

Erysipelas is a disease caused by bacterial infection, primarily by the erysipelas streptococcus. Generally, erysipelas is unlikely to heal on its own. Once infected with erysipelas, it indicates that our body's resistance is relatively low. It is recommended to eat more foods rich in vitamins and proteins during this time. You should avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, and consuming overly spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, onions, ginger, and garlic. Also, try to avoid foods that might induce further issues, such as seafood, mangoes, etc.

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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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Dermatology
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What vegetables are good to eat for erysipelas?

What to eat after erysipelas depends on the nature of the disease itself. Erysipelas is a skin disease caused by bacterial infection. Therefore, it is beneficial to eat more foods that clear heat and detoxify after contracting erysipelas, such as winter melon, pumpkin, bitter melon, leafy greens, and mung beans. Additionally, it is also good to consume more vegetables and fruits, such as watermelon and bananas, which are rich in vitamins.

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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.