EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders, and its features vary depending on the type of EDS. Common features across the different types of EDS include:

1. **Joint hypermobility**: Increased range of motion in the joints, often leading to frequent dislocations or subluxations.
2. **Skin hyperextensibility**: The skin can be stretched further than usual and may have a soft or velvety texture.
3. **Fragile, easily bruised skin**: The skin is prone to bruising and may heal slowly or poorly, sometimes resulting in atrophic scars.
4. **Chronic joint pain**: Pain is often due to the instability of joints and frequent dislocations.
5. **Poor wound healing**: Wounds may take longer to heal and may result in widened, thin scars.
6. **Abnormal scarring**: Scars may appear thin and "cigarette paper-like," particularly in areas with frequent trauma.
7. **Frequent sprains and strains**: The instability of joints makes it easier to sustain sprains and strains.
8. **Soft, doughy skin texture**: In some types of EDS, the skin feels unusually soft and doughy.
9. **Early onset of osteoarthritis**: The joint hypermobility and instability can lead to early arthritis.
10. **Scoliosis and other skeletal abnormalities**: Some types of EDS can cause scoliosis (curvature of the spine), flat feet, and other skeletal deformities.
11. **Gum disease and dental issues**: Some forms of EDS are associated with fragile gums and increased risk of periodontal disease.
12. **Cardiovascular problems**: Certain types of EDS (e.g., vascular EDS) can affect blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of vascular rupture, aneurysms, and other cardiovascular complications.
13. **Fragile blood vessels**: Blood vessels may rupture easily, leading to internal bleeding, which is a serious concern in vascular EDS.
14. **Digestive issues**: Some individuals with EDS may experience gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or hernias.

Different types of EDS have their own specific features, so not every individual with EDS will experience all of these symptoms.