Have you ever noticed that your joints bend and move a little more than your friends? Or do you get bruised and bruised even when you hit a small spot? You might think, "Oh... that's just how my body is, I've been like this since I was a kid." But these can sometimes be symptoms of a condition that we don't talk about much, but we definitely need to know about. Today we're going to talk about one such condition, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or EDS for short.
Simply put, what is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?
Think of our body as a beautifully constructed building. Everything in this building, including the bricks, walls, and roof, is held together and held strong by cement. Similarly, our body's organs, bones, muscles, and skin are connected, supported, and held strong by a special network of tissues. We call these connective tissues .
The main hero of this connective tissue is a protein called collagen . It's like cement. This collagen is what gives strength and stability to our skin, joints, and blood vessels.
Now, here's what happens in the body of someone with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): There's a genetic change in the way their body makes this protein called collagen. So the collagen that's produced isn't strong enough, like old cement. So what happens? It's like the building is weakening, the connective tissue in the body is weakening. So it can affect many areas of the body.
- Blood and blood vessels
- Bones (bones)
- Cartilage (the smooth tissue between bones)
- Fat
- Junctions (joints)
- Muscles
- Skin
Are there main types of EDS?
Yes, EDS is not the same for everyone. The condition is divided into 13 main types based on how it affects the body and the symptoms it causes. But today we're going to talk about some of the most common types that you should be especially aware of.
| EDS type name | A brief introduction |
|---|---|
| Hypermobile EDS | This is the most common type. Their joints are incredibly flexible and loose. They feel like they are 'locked in'. The joints often make a 'click' sound and can easily snap. |
| Classical EDS | This is similar to the above type, but it affects the skin more than the joints. The skin is very thin, rubbery, and can easily tear and be injured. |
| Classical-like EDS | As the name suggests, it is very similar to Classical EDS, but there are slight differences in the symptoms. Only a doctor can diagnose these. |
| Cardiac-valvular EDS | This can affect the cardiovascular system and heart valves, as well as causing symptoms in the skin and joints. |
| Vascular EDS | This is a rare and dangerous type. It affects blood vessels and internal organs more than joints. Their walls are weak and can easily burst or rupture. This is a condition that requires urgent attention. |
What are the common symptoms of EDS?
Now you may be thinking, "I don't know if I have this too." Let's take a look at the most common symptoms of this condition. But remember one thing, just because you have one or two of these symptoms doesn't mean you have EDS . These symptoms can also be seen in other diseases. Therefore, the best thing to do is to see a doctor if you have any doubts and make a definitive diagnosis .
| Symptom | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Hypermobile joints | Joints bend much more than normal. Some call them 'double jointed'. Joints like the shoulder, knee, and fingers are constantly moving. |
| Stretchy, smooth skin | The skin is very smooth, like velvet. And like a ball of pizza dough, you can stretch it as much as you want, and it goes right back to where it was when you let go. |
| Fragile skin and scars | Even a small wound takes a long time to heal. It scars easily, and sometimes the scars become thinner and appear discolored. |
| Bruising easily | Sometimes blue bruises appear on the body even without being hit anywhere. Even if you hit it just a little somewhere, it will turn blue. |
| Joint and muscle pain | There is constant pain, like aching, in the joints and muscles. This pain comes and goes. |
| Chronic fatigue | Feeling tired and lifeless all day even after sleeping well. |
| Digestive system problems | You may experience stomach discomfort, bloating, constipation, etc. Some people may develop conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). |
| Risk of Hernias | The risk of hernia is higher because the connective tissue around the muscles is weak. |
What causes EDS? Is it contagious?
No, EDS is not something that can be passed from one person to another . It is a completely genetic condition . That is, it is caused by a genetic change in our genes. This defect occurs in the genes that instruct us to produce the collagen protein that we talked about earlier.
Experts have identified more than 20 different genetic variations that cause EDS. Which genetic variation you have determines the type of EDS and symptoms you develop.
Some types of EDS can be inherited from parents to children. This means that if either parent has the condition, there is a chance that the children will also have it. However, some types can also occur somatically, without any family history.
If someone in your family has this condition, or if you have similar symptoms, it is very important to talk to a doctor and, if necessary, seek genetic counseling .
What are the possible complications of EDS?
The most common complication in this condition is dislocation . This can be a very painful experience. There is something very important that we all need to remember here.
If you dislocate a joint, never try to reattach it yourself or have someone else do it! This will only cause further damage to the joint, surrounding tissues, and nerves. The best thing to do is to go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible.
In some severe forms, such as vascular EDS, complications can occur that can be life-threatening. For example, blood vessels can burst, causing bleeding inside the body and serious conditions such as stroke .
Other complications may include:
- Scoliosis
- Heart valve problems
- Teeth and gum problems
- Bowed limbs
Treatment and management of EDS
First of all, there is no cure for EDS yet. But don't worry. You can control your symptoms, prevent complications, and live a normal, quality life. The main goal of treatment is to manage your symptoms.
- Physical therapy: This is very important. Exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joints can help reduce joint stiffness and pain.
- Wearing special braces: Your doctor may recommend special braces to provide extra support and protect weak joints.
- Special care for the skin: Since the skin is very sensitive, it is important to protect it by using sunscreen when going out in the sun and using mild, non-irritating soaps.
Also, it's best to stay away from certain things that can damage the joints.
- Contact sports
- High-impact exercise (running, jumping, and other high-impact exercises)
- Weight lifting
This doesn't mean you can't exercise at all. You can talk to your doctor about exercises that are suitable for your body and won't damage your joints, such as swimming or cycling.
Living with EDS can be challenging at times. Constant pain and fatigue can be frustrating. That's normal. But you can understand your limitations, make the necessary changes, and continue to do the things you love. Listen to your body. If you notice any changes in your symptoms or how you feel, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a genetic condition caused by a deficiency in the collagen protein.
- The main symptoms are excessive bending and frequent jumping of the joints, skin elasticity, and easy bruising.
- Although it cannot be completely cured, symptoms can be well managed with physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and proper medical advice.
- If you pop a joint, never try to fix it yourself, but go to a hospital emergency room (ETU) immediately.
- If you have these symptoms or have a family history, it is very important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and advice.
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