MYTH 1:

There is no pain associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

FACT: There is pain associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Individuals with EDS experience both chronic and severe acute pain. Pain management is often very challenging for affected people. Pain is a criterion for diagnosing EDS.

 

 

MYTH 2:

In order to have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, you must have the “Classic sign” of hyper-elastic skin.

FACT: Hyper-elastic skin is an indicator for Classic type of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, but is not typical for all types. Hypermobility of the joints is a common finding for all forms of EDS!

 

 

MYTH 3:

You do not have any bruises, so you can’t have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome!

FACT: Not everyone who has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome will bruise easily. Those who do experience significant bruising tend to have fragile blood vessels and translucent skin.

 

 

MYTH 4:

You have to be tall and thin in order to be diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

FACT: Marfanoid habitus is only a minor criterion for diagnosing a person with EDS. Those who have EDS can vary in height, weight and ethnic backgrounds.

 

 

MYTH 5:

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is only a muscle and joint disorder!

FACT: EDS is characterized by a genetic defect in connective tissues.  Connective tissues make up 21% of the body. Since connective tissues support many organs, specific body parts, and tissues; it can be a multisystem disorder depending on the type of EDS. From head to toe, EDS affects everything including the muscles and joints.