Dry skin is common here in Thibodaux, especially when the humidity drops or heaters run constantly indoors. But when the dryness sticks around, cracks open or itches intensely, it may be something more: what seems like seasonal irritation could be eczema.
At Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care, we treat a wide range of skin concerns for both children and adults every day of the week. That includes helping people figure out whether they’re dealing with everyday dryness, eczema or another issue that needs medical care.
Dry skin vs. eczema: How to tell the difference
While both dry skin and eczema can cause flaking and itching, eczema often involves red or scaly patches that don’t improve with regular moisturizers. The condition may also lead to skin thickening or painful cracks that leave the area vulnerable to infection.
Dry skin tends to respond well to lotion and hydration, and it usually appears in a more even pattern on the arms, legs or hands. But according to the Mayo Clinic, eczema often shows red or scaly patches that don’t readily improve with regular moisturizers. Eczema tends also to affect the:
- Inner elbows or backs of the knees
- Neck, face or eyelids
- Wrists, ankles or hands, especially in children
- Skin folds or places that sweat or rub against fabric
It’s not always easy to tell whether you’re dealing with eczema or dry skin. When symptoms linger or get worse, a provider can help you get the right diagnosis and a more effective plan.
When dry skin symptoms interfere with your day
Occasional dryness is one thing, but itching or irritation disrupting your sleep, affecting your workday, or keeping your child uncomfortable at school, is something else entirely.
Many also notice a pattern: when the weather cools down, or when their stress level goes up, the flare-ups tend to appear. If your symptoms come and go with the seasons, or if they’ve recently gotten worse, an urgent care visit can help clarify what’s behind it.
Namely, if your skin becomes:
- Painful
- Cracked or oozing
- Covered in open sores
- Warm to the touch or swollen
…it should be evaluated promptly. We’re ready to see you at any of our locations in Thibodaux, Gray or Houma.
What triggers eczema to flare up?
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition connected to immune system response. It’s not contagious but it does often run in families. And even mild cases can flare up with the right trigger. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, common triggers include:
- Dry air and sudden temperature shifts
- Irritants found in soaps, detergents or perfumes
- Certain fabrics like wool or synthetic fibers
- Pollen, dust or pet dander
- Overheating and sweating
Since eczema is chronic, it often keeps coming back unless the triggers are managed. Our providers can help you identify what those triggers might be and reduce future flares.
What skin treatment looks like at urgent care
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the skin issue. For severely inflamed or persistent symptoms, we may recommend additional care approaches.
At Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care, treatment for your skin condition might include:
- Prescription creams that calm inflammation and relieve itching
- Non-steroid medications for long-term flare-up control
- Antibiotics (if we notice signs of infection)
- Evaluation for identifying possible triggers in your house
If you’ve already tried home remedies or over-the-counter treatments without relief, urgent care can be the next logical step forward. Our team can assess your issue, provide targeted treatment and recommend follow-up as needed.
Come to Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care for skin relief
Persistent skin problems don’t have to be part of your daily routine. If dry, cracked, or irritated skin hasn’t improved with over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to have it looked at.
At Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care, we evaluate and treat eczema, rashes and other skin concerns 7 days a week. You don’t need a referral — just walk in today or reserve your spot online for faster care without the ER wait.
