What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?
What is EDS?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of genetic disorders that affect connective tissues. Connective tissues are the tissues that hold your body together and give it shape. There are many different types of EDS, but they all affect connective tissues.
The symptoms of EDS can vary depending on the type of EDS. Some common symptoms include:
Joint pain
Fatigue
Skin problems, such as stretch marks and bruising
Digestive problems
Sleep problems
Anxiety and depression
EDS is a lifelong condition. There is no cure for EDS, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. Treatment options include:
Medications
Physical therapy
Surgery
Lifestyle changes
Levels of EDS
There are 13 types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) classified by the International Ehlers-Danlos Society. The severity of the symptoms varies depending on the type of EDS.
The most common types of EDS are:
Hypermobility EDS (hEDS): This is the most mild type of EDS. People with hEDS have overly flexible joints.
Vascular EDS (vEDS): This is the most severe type of EDS. People with vEDS have a high risk of aortic aneurysms and other vascular problems.
Classical EDS: This is a type of EDS that affects the skin, joints, and organs. People with classical EDS have stretchy skin, loose joints, and a risk of organ ruptures.
Kyphoscoliosis EDS (kEDS): This is a type of EDS that affects the spine. People with kEDS have a curvature of the spine and loose joints.
Dermasparaxis EDS (dEDS): This is a type of EDS that affects the skin. People with dEDS have loose, wrinkled skin.
There are also a number of rarer types of EDS.
If you believe you have symptoms of EDS, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis.
Diagnosis
There is no one-size-fits-all diagnosis process for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). However, there are a number of steps that a doctor may take to diagnose EDS, including:
Taking a medical history. The doctor will ask about your symptoms, such as joint pain, fatigue, and skin problems. They will also ask about your family history, as EDS is a genetic condition.
Performing a physical exam. The doctor will look for signs of EDS, such as hypermobility of the joints, stretchy skin, and fragile skin.
Ordering genetic testing. If the doctor suspects that you have EDS, they may order genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis.
If you have symptoms of EDS, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. There are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
Specific Skin Problems for Diagnosis
The variety of EDS skin problems, include:
Stretchy skin. The skin of people with EDS is often stretchy and loose. This can make it difficult for the skin to heal from injuries and can also lead to stretch marks.
Bruises. People with EDS are more likely to bruise than people without EDS. This is because the skin of people with EDS is fragile and can easily break.
Skin tears. The skin of people with EDS is also more likely to tear than the skin of people without EDS. This can be a problem especially if the skin tears near a joint.
Scarring. People with EDS often have scars from injuries. These scars can be thick and raised.
Skin infections. People with EDS are also more likely to get skin infections. This is because the skin of people with EDS is more likely to be broken.
With EDS, it is important to take care of your skin. You should avoid activities that could damage your skin, such as contact sports. You should also wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. If you have any skin problems, you should see a doctor.