What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? (and why do we refer to it as a Triad syndrome?)
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS):
What is EDS?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a genetic connective tissue syndrome, with varied inherited patterns. There are currently 13 types of EDS.
All types are thought to have the common features of joint hypermobility (stretches beyond normal range) and tissue fragility. A gene mutation causes the body's connective tissue, usually in the form of collagen, to be fragile and stretchy.
Connective tissue with collagen is found throughout the body, it connects, supports, binds and also separates our organs and tissues. When the collagen is stretchy and fragile often the organs and tissues do not perform the same way as those without EDS, resulting in dysfunction throughout the body.
What are some of the symptoms?
Depending on the type of EDS some signs and symptoms include:
Stretchy lax skin (often only seen when pulling)
Joint dislocations, subluxations and hernias
Joint stiffness and arthritic conditions
Easy bruising
Poor wound healing and scarring
Chronic local or systemic pain
Fluctuations of the nervous system termed Dysautonomia
Anxiety, depression and other psychsocial impairment
Affects to heart and blood vessels
Functional and structural digestive disorders - Irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, gastritis
Dental crowding, gingivitis and gum recession
Menstrual irregularities and pelvic pain
There is unfortunately no cure, however many individuals are able to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.
What aside from genetics can contribute to EDS?
Identifying triggers and non-genetic causes can assist in the management of EDS. These can include
Food allergies or food intolerances
Inadequate nutrition and hydration and nutritional malabsorption
Low work/life balance
Low quality sleep or insomnia
Environmental factors and low or inappropriate exercise/movement or chronic injuries
Persistent and frequent viruses or infections
Medical, psychological or physical trauma
Why do you refer to EDS as a Triad syndrome?
At Hypermobile Natural Therapies we manage clients with Ehlers-Danlos as though there are 3 interconnected parts:
Hypermobility - pain, poor wound healing and tissue fragility
2. Postural symptoms (POTS, OI/OH) - dizziness/lightheadedness, fast/slow heart rate or blood pressure
3. Mast cell symptoms (MCAS) - Rashes, digestive disturbances, nausea
We have found when we manage all of the different parts together, we achieve better client outcomes. This refers to one of the naturopathic principles we follow called treat the whole person (click here to read more).
Often clients will initially present more strongly with two of the three above areas. However, when we begin to resolve symptoms in one triad part, symptoms of another will become more apparent. We call this peeling back the layers of condition management.
Want to also read about our 3 Consultation Approach? Click here