May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month. EDS is a debilitating, and potentially fatal connective tissue disorder. It is estimated that 1 in 5,000 people suffer from the condition.

The majority of sufferers - approximately 90 percent - go undiagnosed until a medical emergency arises. These emergencies can be life-threatening, and include arterial rupture, bowel rupture, or rupture of other internal organs. Less serious but painful emergencies such as spontaneous joint dislocations can also occur.

Unfortunately, most physicians are not prepared to recognize the symptoms prior to an emergency. As a result, patients often see multiple specialists in attempt to get a diagnosis that explains their numerous symptoms. Increased awareness of EDS will lead to earlier, more accurate diagnosis. In addition, it will provide EDS patients with a sense a validation and an improved quality of life. For more information, please visit: www.ednf.org.

Beth Sauer

Arrowsmith