Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a condition characterized by problems with the connective tissues. These tissues are responsible for providing the body with strength and elasticity. Usually, they hold strong proteins and allow the body to stretch and contract safely. But in people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, these tissues are weakened or faulty, and these abnormalities can cause several serious problems.
People with this disorder may benefit from genetic counseling. Genetic counseling can help a person understand the nature of this disorder and the risk of passing it on to their children. It can also help the patient understand the symptoms of the disease, such as hyperextensible joints and early osteoarthritis.
The most common manifestation of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is hypermobility. The hypermobile form of the disease is characterized by increased mobility of the jaw joint. This hypermobility can lead to a variety of complications, including fragile gums, gum recession, and abnormal enamel. In addition to these complications, patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome often suffer from depression and anxiety.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is an inherited disorder characterized by abnormalities in collagen synthesis and metabolism. It affects approximately 1 in 5,000 to 20,000 people, with classical and hypermobile forms occurring in about 1 in every 20,000 people. Other forms of the disorder are rare, though families may have a history of the disease.
Hypermobility
Is a hallmark symptom of many Ehlers-Danlos syndrome types. The syndrome can cause joints to be excessively loose, causing pain, dislocation, and early onset arthritis. Infants with hypermobility typically have a weak muscle tone, which delays the development of motor skills. These babies may experience chronic pain and early onset arthritis, leading to joint failure.
Although there are no known cures for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, treatment for symptoms is often straightforward. Over-the-counter medications are the primary method of treatment. Only more aggressive treatments, such as surgery, require a prescription from a doctor. In addition to over-the-counter pain relievers, doctors may prescribe blood pressure-lowering medications to reduce pressure on the blood vessels. Additionally, exercises can strengthen muscles and stabilize joints. A physical therapist may recommend braces to help prevent the joints from dislocating.
While the exact cause of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is unknown, there are several distinct types of the disorder. One of these types is classical, caused by a type V collagen gene mutation. The other two types of the syndrome are vascular and hypermobile.