Treatment of erysipela may be done by using antibiotics in the form of pills, syrups or injections prescribed by the doctor, for about 10 to 14 days, in addition to care such as rest and elevation of the affected limb to help deflate the area.
When erysipela is not severe, treatment can be done at home, but there are situations where hospitalization with antibiotics applied directly to the vein is necessary, such as in cases of very large lesions or affecting sensitive areas, such as the face, for example. .
- Erysipela is a skin infection that causes red.
- Swollen and painful lesions that can develop blisters and purple areas.
- Usually caused by a bacterium called Streptcoccus pyogenes.
- Although it is more common in people over the age of 50 and obese.
- Erysipela can affect anyone.
- Especially when there is chronic swelling or the presence of skin sores.
- Learn more about its causes and how to identify erysipela.
Treatment of erysipela lasts 10 to 14 days and antibiotics your doctor may prescribe include:
For those allergic to penicillin, your doctor may include other options such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or clindamycin.
It is very important to strictly follow treatment to avoid the occurrence of complications, such as chronic lymphedema or recurrent erysipela.
In case of bubble erysipela, in which a wet lesion can be associated, with bubbles and transparent content, topical antimicrobial treatment, such as 2% fusidic acid or 1% ar ghargic sulfadiazine.
There are situations that can worsen and pose a risk to the person’s health, and in these cases it is recommended that the patient remain hospitalized, with the use of antibiotics in the vein and more careful follow-up. Situations that indicate hospitalization are:
In these cases, antibiotics that can be applied in a vein and, in some cases, with greater potency, such as Cefazoline, Theicoplanin or Vancomycin, for example, are indicated by the doctor according to the needs of each patient.
During treatment of erysipela, certain attitudes that may help with recovery include staying with the affected limb elevated, which facilitates venous return and reduces swelling.
It is also recommended to rest during recovery, to hydrate well and keep the edges of the lesion clean and dry. Home ointments or other substances not indicated by the doctor in the area should be avoided, as they may hinder treatment and even aggravate the injury.
To prevent erysipela, conditions that increase your risk, such as weight loss in the event of obesity and treatment of diseases that cause chronic limb swelling, such as heart failure or venous failure, need to be reduced or treated. If skin sores appear, keep them clean and dry to prevent bacterial contamination.
For people who have a repeatedly appearing erysipela, your doctor may recommend using antibiotics to prevent new infections, such as penicillin or erythromycin.