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.