8 Signs Of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of disorders that are inherited or passed down through genetics. EDS is caused by different genetic defects in collagen. Collagen is a protein that is tough and fibrous, and it is an essential and significant part of the body’s structural components. When a person has an insufficient amount of collagen, their connective tissues can become loose. The connective tissues are what help to support skin, bones, blood vessels, as well as other organs. This can cause problems with the skin's elasticity, the muscle’s not being tight enough, bone and joint looseness and blood vessel problems. EDS usually affects the joints, skin, and blood vessel walls by weakening the connective tissues. People with EDS can be described as having “velvety” or “loose” skin due to the connective tissues not keeping the skin tight. EDS patients also have issues with wounds healing and extreme bruising.There are many different types of EDS and symptoms vary depending on the type. Some types of EDS are mild, and some are more severe and may be life-threatening. All types of EDS are currently incurable; however, treatments are available to help manage symptoms. Treatments include pain management, physical therapy, etc. EDS can come with extreme symptoms but identifying symptoms can be difficult.

1. Bleeding

Bleeding can occur in many different ways in people with EDS. The most common type of bleeding problems arise in Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. However, bleeding can and does happen in almost every variation of EDS. EDS affects the blood vessels and can cause them not to be able to clot. In other words, when a person that suffers from EDS gets injured and has an open wound, it can be difficult or impossible to stop the bleeding, even if it just a minor injury. EDS bleeding symptoms can be very serious and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include: frequent nosebleeds, frequent sore and bleeding gums, small or large cuts or wounds that do not heal by themselves or bleed excessively, spontaneous internal bleeding, arterial ruptures, fragile blood vessels that tend to aneurysm, blood pressure problems, platelets do not clump together properly, etc.Bleeding in any of these ways is very serious. If you feel that you are bleeding in a way that is abnormal it is important to see a healthcare professional immediately. Spontaneous arterial ruptures do happen in EDS patients however they are usually brought on by an aneurysm. Arterial ruptures can be fatal if not treated immediately. If you suffer from any of the bleeding complications listed above, this can be a sign of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.Next