Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is an inherited condition that affects the connective tissues in the body. Connective tissue is responsible for supporting and structuring the skin, blood vessels, bones, and organs. It’s made up of cells, fibrous material and collagen. There are 13 major types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. However, most of them are considered rare. Each type of EDS affects different areas of the body. However, all types of EDS have one thing in common: hypermobility. Hypermobility is an unusually large range of movement in the joints.
Causes of Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome
In most cases EDS is an inherited condition. This means that they occur via gene mutations.
Symptoms of Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome
Parents are sometimes silent carriers of the defective genes that cause EDS. This means the parents may not have any symptoms of the condition. And they’re unaware they’re carriers of a defective gene. Other times, the gene cause is dominant and can cause symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Loose joints
- Highly elastic skin
- Skin that bruises easily
- Muscle pain or fatigue
- Heart valve problems
- Facial abnormalities (redundant skin folds on the eyes, protruding eyes, sunken cheeks, small chin, etc.)
Diagnosis of Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome
Doctors may use a series of tests to diagnose EDS. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:
- Echocardiogram (ECHO)
- Computed tomography (CT scans)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Genetic testing
- Tissue biopsy
- Blood tests
Treatment of Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome
There are several treatment options for EDS. Most options would fall under making certain lifestyle changes and medications. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and medical and surgical procedures.
Lifestyle Changes
- Avoid contact sports.
- Exercise under the directions of your doctor.
- Use sunscreen to protect the skin.
- Avoid harsh soaps that may overdry the skin or cause allergic reactions.
- Use assistive devices to minimize pressure on your joints.
- Make and keep appointments to see your doctor for routine check-ups and follow-up tests.
Medications
- ACE inhibitors will help blood vessels relax and open up, leading to a lower blood pressure.
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers will help blood vessels open up, leading to a lower blood pressure.
- Beta blockers will help reduce your blood pressure.