MCTD Support Group

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) or Sharp's syndrome is a human autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body. MCTD combines features of polymyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic scleroderma and is thus considered an overlap syndrome. MCTD commonly causes joint pain/swelling, Raynaud phenomenon, muscle inflammation, and scarring of...

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Fingernail Issues

tammib
tammib
My fingernails have become so thin that they barely exist anymore. They are so tender that I avoid using my fingers as much as possible. They are too short to curl around the fingertips, but they are attached to the quick and would curl around if they were longer. Any suggestions? I would love to be able to use them again without pain. Thanks!

Tammi
MToennis
MToennis
I think I remember you having Raynauds? This sounds like poor circulation. Maybe you need some treatment to increase the blood flow. Ask the rheumy.
Sclaraderma could also be the problem, but it sound like a Raynauds issue to me.
Mary Ann
tammib
tammib
I do have Raynauds and I take Cardizem to treat it. I think you are right and I am going to contact the doc today. I really appreciate your input!
MToennis
MToennis
I will be interested in hearing what he has to say!
Mary Ann
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hi - sorry to barge in but I wanted to add my 2 cents. I also have very thin nails and they do seem to want to wrap around the tips of my fingers (although they usually don't get long enough). You may want to look up "clubbing" as this is a result of long term low oxygen levels. God bless & good luck.
tammib
tammib
Thanks for the replies. I went on antibiotic and a higher prednisone strength and it got a lot better. Now I am done with the antibiotic and prednisone is down to 30 mg. Unfortunately it is back just as painful as before. I really would like to get in prevent mode. I can tell by the way I feel that they aren't getting enough circulation. I have jets on my bathtub and I put my hands on them last night and they felt better for a bit. I am going to go back to the doctor and look up clubbing. Thanks again!