What is erysipelas and is it contagious?

Written by Cui Lin Jing
Dermatology
Updated on October 31, 2024
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Erysipelas is an inflammation of the skin and lymphatic vessels caused by bacterial infection, commonly occurring in the summer and autumn seasons. It frequently occurs on the face and lower legs, with rhinitis and athlete's foot being the most common triggers. This is due to bacteria infecting the lymphatic vessels through minor wounds. Initially, the lesions are clearly defined, edematous, bright red patches with distinct edges, shiny surface, and increased skin temperature in the affected area. Occasionally, blisters or large blisters may appear, accompanied by spontaneous pain or tenderness and local lymph node enlargement. Erysipelas is not contagious and is quite sensitive to antibiotic treatment. The preferred treatment is penicillin for a duration of two weeks. Since erysipelas is prone to recurrence, it is crucial that the treatment course is sufficient.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can I eat wood ear mushrooms with erysipelas?

Patients with erysipelas can eat wood ear mushrooms, and it is recommended to consume more of this food because wood ear mushrooms belong to the vegetable category and contain a large amount of vitamins, fiber, and calcium, which are very helpful for the recovery from erysipelas and can also play a certain detoxifying effect. In addition to wood ear mushrooms, vegetables and fruits such as cabbage, seaweed, apples, oranges, and grapes are also beneficial for the recovery from erysipelas and can be consumed in larger amounts. Paying attention to one's lifestyle habits and bathing frequently can help with the recovery from erysipelas.

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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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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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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 Cui Lin Jing
Dermatology
1min 4sec home-news-image

What is erysipelas and is it contagious?

Erysipelas is an inflammation of the skin and lymphatic vessels caused by bacterial infection, commonly occurring in the summer and autumn seasons. It frequently occurs on the face and lower legs, with rhinitis and athlete's foot being the most common triggers. This is due to bacteria infecting the lymphatic vessels through minor wounds. Initially, the lesions are clearly defined, edematous, bright red patches with distinct edges, shiny surface, and increased skin temperature in the affected area. Occasionally, blisters or large blisters may appear, accompanied by spontaneous pain or tenderness and local lymph node enlargement. Erysipelas is not contagious and is quite sensitive to antibiotic treatment. The preferred treatment is penicillin for a duration of two weeks. Since erysipelas is prone to recurrence, it is crucial that the treatment course is sufficient.