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What is EDS

Connective tissue is the glue that holds your body together.  Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are a group of inherited disorders that affect the body's connective tissue due to improper collagen formation.  They are generally characterized by joint hypermobility (joints that stretch further than normal), skin hyperextensibility (skin that can be stretched further than normal), and tissue fragility. 

 

There are several different types of EDS; however the most common are hypermobile, classical, and vascular.  According to the Ehlers-Danlos Society, at this time, research statistics of the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes show the total prevalence as 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 people. Clinical experience suggests that Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may be more common. The conditions are known to affect both males and females of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.   

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Some individuals may be diagnosed with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Joint Hypermobility (JH) if they don't meet the full criteria for EDS; however the Ehlers Danlos Society has acknowledged that whatever the diagnosis, the problems equal in severity and require similar management, validation, and care.

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Symptoms

Symptoms vary greatly in intensity and location based on the severity of the condition and type of genetic mutation. However, hypermobility occurs in all patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum disorders to some extent. A list of common symptoms are listed below: 

01

Joint instability, subluxations, dislocations.

03

Soft tissue injury, such as sprains and tears. Skin tearing, stretching, scarring, slow healing.

02

Joint deterioration/disease (arthritis). 

04

Chronic pain, inflammation and fatigue associated with everything above.

Comorbidities

There are a variety of comorbidity conditions that are commonly found in EDS and HSD patients. There are a many hypothesis' about why this occurs, but for now, it is important to be aware of these issues and seek specialized care when necessary.

01

Dysautonomia: Orthostatic Intolerances, Irregular Heart Rate,
Brain Fog, Migraines, Syncope.

03

Gastrointestinal Issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Gastroparesis

02

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Histamine Intolerances, Allergies and Sensitivities (Gluten, Dairy, Nuts)

04

Autoimimmune Conditions such as Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis and more. 

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