Unsplash Photo People living with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS) face a range of health challenges, but recent research highlights a concerning connection between Pentad Super Syndrome, white matter disease , and an increased risk of stroke . Understanding this link is crucial for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to recognize warning signs and take proactive steps to reduce risks, Pentad Super Syndrome is a complex condition that can occur in individ

Unsplash Photo Carotid artery tortuosity is a condition where the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, become twisted or curved more than usual. This can affect blood flow and sometimes lead to symptoms like dizziness or stroke risk. One factor linked to this condition is HEDS, or hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder. I am aware of carotid tortuosity because my mom has been diagnosed with it. Hers is not severe. It is being monitor

Unsplash Photo Chronic cough can be a frustrating and persistent symptom for many people. When it occurs in individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), it often raises questions about the connection between this genetic condition and respiratory issues. Understanding why chronic cough happens in EDS helps patients and caregivers manage symptoms better and seek appropriate care. This post explores the main reasons behind chronic cough in EDS and offers practical insights.

Unsplash Photo When someone experiences a head injury , the immediate concerns often focus on visible trauma or cognitive effects. Yet, for some individuals, symptoms related to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) may appear or worsen after such an injury. This connection can be confusing and alarming. Understanding why EDS symptoms might emerge following a head injury helps patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers better manage these complex cases. A head injury can range f

Unsplash Photo I’m LaDonna Burns, NP — a middle-aged woman who, for years, lived with a constellation of symptoms that didn’t make sense until someone finally gave them a name. If my story sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As a child I wore glasses as thick as coke bottles and sat “like a frog.” I was clumsy, bruised easily, and always tired. At 12, when my menses began, so did debilitating migraines: three-day headaches with aura, nausea, and vomiting that left me curled on

If you live with POTS, you probably know the feeling of being way  hotter or colder than everyone else in the room. One minute you’re bundled up like it’s winter in Alaska, and the next you’re peeling off layers because your body suddenly decided it’s a sauna. It’s confusing, uncomfortable, and honestly pretty exhausting. The good news is: there are  reasons this happens, and once you understand them, the whole experience feels a little less random. Why POTS Messes With Your

Unsplash Photo Living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) often means managing a wide range of symptoms that don’t always appear connected at first. One lesser-discussed but increasingly recognized issue is pelvic congestion, a condition that can significantly affect comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. In hEDS, connective tissue fragility doesn’t just impact joints—it can also affect the veins, leading to reduced structural support. As a result, veins

Unsplash Photo Small organ cysts can be a concerning finding for anyone, especially for those diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS). Many wonder if these cysts increase the risk of organ rupture , a serious complication. Small organ cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various organs such as the kidneys, liver, pancreas. lungs, or spinal column. These cysts are often benign and may not cause symptoms. In the general population, small cysts are co

Unsplash Photo Experiencing intense heartburn can feel confusing and frustrating. For some people, this symptom may be linked to a connective tissue disorder, Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS). In people with HEDS, the digestive system may be more prone to problems such as acid reflux, delayed stomach emptying, and increased sensitivity to stomach acid. This can lead to symptoms like heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain. Heartburn usually happens when stomach acid

Wix Media Pectus excavatum , often described as a sunken or funnel chest, is a noticeable chest wall deformity. It raises questions among patients and healthcare providers about its connection to various medical conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). EDS is a group of genetic disorders affecting connective tissue. But does the presence of pectus excavatum serve as a reliable diagnostic indicator for EDS? Pectus excavatum is the most common congenital chest wal

Unsplash Photo Defecation syncope is a distressing condition where a person faints or feels dizzy during or immediately after a bowel movement. This phenomenon can be particularly concerning for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), especially the hypermobile type (hEDS). Understanding why defecation syncope occurs in hEDS is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Defecation syncope happens when blood flow to the brain temporarily decreases dur

Unsplash Photo Many people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) notice changes in their hair, including short eyelashes and patchy eyebrows. These symptoms can be confusing and concerning, especially when they appear alongside other signs of EDS. Understanding why these hair changes happen and how they relate to EDS can help you manage your condition better and find ways to improve your appearance and confidence. EDS affects many parts of the body, including the skin and hair

Unsplash Photo Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) are two complex conditions that often puzzle both patients and healthcare providers. When these disorders occur together, they can create a challenging clinical picture. Understanding how FND relates to EDS, along with the causes and symptoms involved, can help patients and caregivers better navigate diagnosis and management. Functional Neurological Disorder is a condition where patients e

(My feet) Red is a painful state People living with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (HEDS) often face a variety of symptoms that affect their daily lives. One condition that frequently appears alongside HEDS is Raynaud's phenomenon, which impacts blood flow to the extremities such as fingers and toes. Understanding how many people with HEDS experience Raynaud's and why this connection exists can help patients and healthcare providers better manage symptoms and improve qual

My arm after routine lab draw Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) raises many questions about daily activities and health choices. One common concern is whether people with EDS can safely donate blood or plasma. Blood donation is a generous act that saves lives, but it’s important to understand how EDS might affect this process. Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Its Impact People with EDS often experience joint hypermobility, fragile skin, and sometimes blood ves

Unsplash Photo Women living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) often face unique challenges related to their gynecological health. hEDS is a connective tissue disorder that affects the body's collagen, leading to joint hypermobility, skin elasticity, and tissue fragility. These characteristics can also impact the reproductive system, causing a range of gynecological problems that may be difficult to diagnose and manage. How hEDS Affects Gynecological Health Colla

Unsplash Photo Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue dis- orders that affect the body's ability to produce strong collagen. This leads to symptoms such as joint hypermobility, skin that stretches easily, and fragile tissues. While EDS itself presents significant challenges, many individuals with this condition also face additional health issues known as comorbidities. Understanding these common comorbidities is crucial for managing EDS effectively and

Unsplash Photo Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, causing an abnormal increase in heart rate when standing up. This can lead to a range of symptoms that impact daily life. Understanding the different types of POTS, their signs, symptoms, and treatment options can help those affected manage the condition more effectively. POTS is a form of dysautonomia, meaning the autonomic nervous system does not work p

Wix Media Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a complex condition where mast cells release excessive chemical mediators, causing a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can affect multiple organ systems, making MCAS challenging to diagnose and manage. Understanding the common symptom categories and the medications that help control them is essential for patients and healthcare providers aiming to improve quality of life for patients. Common Symptom Categories in MCAS MC

Unsplash Photo Living with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) means managing a condition that affects connective tissues, leading to joint hypermobility, pain, and frequent dislocations. Many people with hEDS seek relief through various therapies, including chiropractic care. But is chiropractic treatment safe for those with this condition? Understanding Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome hEDS is a genetic disorder characterized by overly flexible joints and fragile c