Question:
My fingernails used to be so nice, but for the last few months they've been breaking off like crazy. They are suddenly really brittle. What causes this? I've never had fake nails, so it's not like I've put adhesive on them or anything to ruin them.

Answer:
Low levels of zinc and iron, as well as thyroid problems, can cause very brittle nails. Certain nail polishes, nail polish removers and nail hardeners can also cause brittle nails. Taking a multiple vitamin every day may help. If this doesn't help and the brittle nails continue after three months of taking the multiple vitamin, you should consult a clinician.

Question:
Can I park behind Ritenour Building when I have an appointment? Another student got a ticket even though she was sick.

Answer:
Parking behind Ritenour Building is restricted to people who have a handicapped sticker. So unless you have an official Penn State handicapped sticker, you cannot park there. However, if you are coming to University Health Services for an appointment, you may park in the HUB Parking Deck, which is less than half a block from Ritenour Building. You will need to ask the UHS checkout staff to validate your parking stub. A validated parking stub will enable you to park at the HUB Deck at the hourly fee.

Submit health questions online at www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/questions/qa.cfm.

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This column is not intended to replace advice from your personal clinician. If conditions persist, see a clinician.