When it comes to the medical realm, I figure it is more than safe to say that most terms and diagnoses sound completely foreign to anyone who isn’t involved in the realm themselves. There are some words I’ve heard over the years that sound anything but English, and I’m sure there are just as many I haven’t heard.
One genetic disorder in particular recently caught my eye because of its unique name; Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is something I’ve been investigating as of late because I think I might have it.
If you’ve never heard of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest. It is rare, and I don’t think it is a commonly discussed disorder, generally speaking. But, if you would like to learn more about it, feel free to continue reading, with the following information coming from mayoclinic.org.
“Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited disorders that affect your connective tissues — primarily your skin, joints and blood vessel walls. Connective tissue is a complex mixture of proteins and other substances that provide strength and elasticity to the underlying structures in your body.
“People who have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome usually have overly flexible joints and stretchy, fragile skin. This can become a problem if you have a wound that requires stitches, because the skin often isn’t strong enough to hold them.
“A more severe form of the disorder, called vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, can cause the walls of your blood vessels, intestines or uterus to rupture,” the web page explains.
I don’t consider myself a hypochondriac, and the reason I suspect I may have this syndrome is because my Aunt does. She is my mom’s sister and I take after her in a genetic sense very strongly, and she and I have been chatting about the likelihood of my having it.
If you’re curious to learn more about Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, check back tomorrow for more information.
Photo by Owen Beard on Unsplash
ontheedgeofeverything 