April 2022
EDS are a group of genetic connective tissue disorders caused by issues in the structure, production, and/or processing of collagen. Collagen is what gives connective tissue its strength, and when its not being produced correctly it can cause issues. EDS affects the connective tissues of the body. These are the tissues that hold together our joints, muscles, blood vessels and internal organs.
Multiple types of EDS exist, some are extremely rare and not well understood. The syndromes vary in how they affect the body. Some people may have mildly loose joints, while others can have to life-threatening complications. Many different areas of the body can be affected.
Symptoms can be different depending on the person and the part of the body. But, can include:
The disorders of EDS are associated with some genetic mutations. This affects how the body makes collagen and can lead to connective tissues
becoming weaker.
EDS can be diagnosed by visiting your GP where they will do a medical history and physical exam. The GP will test the skin elasticity and
joint flexibility. Imaging tests can look for other signs and complications of EDS. A blood sample may be taken for genetic testing,
which helps confirm the diagnosis.
There is currently no cure for Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes. Treatment and management aims to prevent complications and to relieve symptoms.
Our friends at Arthritis & Osteoporisis Western Australia have a great
story and article on EDS here
Source:
The Ehlers-Danlos Society. What are the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes?. n.d. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes. 2017. https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6322/ehlers-danlos-syndromes
Arthritis Foundation. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. n.d. https://bit.ly/3OroxeE
Join our online exercise program 'Arthritis Moves' from the comfort of your own home.
Join one of our online support groups to connect with other Australians living with arthritis.
Have questions? Call our free infoline on 1800 011 041 to speak with a member of our health team.
Register for Arthritis Assist to speak one-on-one with someone else living with arthritis.