Q: Can you tell me why my fingernails break and chip when fall comes
and the temperature is colder? They break off short, which neither
looks nor feels good. My nails are strong in summer. Is there anything
I can do about this?
A: Although you did not say where you live, I expect you are in one of
the prairie provinces where it gets like a desert in winter. The
problem is due to dryness rather than cold temperatures. In addition, I
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believe there is a seasonal tendency for hair to fall out and nails to
chip just like animals that shed their coats at this time of year. This
always struck me as illogical because animals need more hair or wool in
the winter to keep them warm.
I am not sure whether this is an old wives tale, but you might try
adding more gelatin to your diet to strengthen the nails. Another
possibility is to use hand lotion to add moisture to the nails. Try to
cut down on chores that involve putting your hands in water for any
length of time. This is another cause of brittle nails.
New arthritis drug
Q: I have suffered from rheumatoid arthritis for a long time. I am
taking Methotrexate and have tried various anti-
inflammatory drugs. I heard there is a new medication, but that it can
have dangerous side effects. What is your opinion? What is the name of
the drug?
A: I believe the medication you are referring to is called
Enbrel. It is manufactured by a company called Immunex that has
recently been subject to a takeover bid from rival company Amgen,
largely because of this drug.
Enbrel inhibits the development of structural damage to the joints in
moderate to severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis. Because it works by
suppressing the immune system, there is a risk of serious infections
and sepsis, so caution should be used by people predisposed to
infection. There have also been a few cases of severe anemia, so it is
important to check the blood count periodically. Those who suffer from
epilepsy or other seizure disorders should be aware that it could
exacerbate the
problem. The drug has also caused seizures in people who have not had
them before.
Enbrel can be used instead of Methotrexate, which can also have some
similar side effects, or in conjunction with it, if your arthritis is
poorly controlled. Unfortunately, none of the drugs used for the
treatment of rheumatoid arthritis are completely safe, but the severity
of the illness and the resulting disability have to be measured against
the risks of treatment.
