Erysipelas

What Is Erysipelas?

Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection. It is sometimes called St. Anthony’s Fire. It is often confused with Cellulitis. It is caused by group A streptococci (a bacteria found in the throat and skin that can cause a wide range if infections, including a sore throat). It often Iresults in inflammation of the underlying fat tissue. Many individuals develop it while suffering from strep throat, or shortly after recovering from it. This skin infection sometimes is on the face, but is most commonly found on the legs. Over 85% of reported cases occur on the legs. It is known to occur in the United States, but is generally found in Europe. It is mostly found in females. It affects infants, small children, and the elderly.

Symptoms Of Erysipelas

Symptoms of Erysipelas include a skin lesion that may blister. The skin may look similar to an orange peel. It is followed by tenderness of the legs, swelling around the infected area, nausea, fatigue fever, and chills. These all occur within 48 hours of the virus entering the body. While this virus is very painful, death is extremely rare. You should consult a doctor if you experience such symptoms. In some cases, the Erysipelas spreads to a person’s joints, bones, and heart valves. This can lead to other infections and complications that can result in death. Patients who are predisposed to this type of virus may end up with permanent disfiguration of lack of mobility in their legs. Those at the highest risk suffer from diabetes, excessive drinking, recent surgeries, fungal problems on their feet or legs, a low immune system, or HIV.

Treatment Of Erysipelas

Treatment for Erysipelas includes elevating the legs. Try to keep weight off of them as much as possible. This will help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. Saline dressings should be applied to the infected areas and changed every four to six hours. Penicillin or other types of antibiotics are often required for at least ten days. In severe cases, the antibiotic may be prescribed for twenty days. Those who have reoccurring bouts of Erysipelas may have to take steroids or penicillin on a regular basis to prevent flare ups. In severe cases of Erysipelas, hospitalization is required to provide monitoring and proper administration of antibiotics and fluids. Many people choose to use Chinese herbs to cure Erysipelas rather than to follow the advice given for modern medicine.

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