Ehlos Danlos Syndrome

Ehlos Danlos syndrome(EDS) is a hereditary connective tissue disease. It is known to be linked to a number (Approximately 20) of different genes that affect the way that collagen, a protein which often forms the framework upon which our other tissues are built (a bit like a scaffold) is formed. There are a number of different types and it has a wide variety of manifestations. EDS usually presents with musculoskeletal problems, including joint pain, hypermobility and joint dislocations but may also have manifestations in other parts of the body including the eyes and the gut. Many patients present with symptoms of reflux, swallowing problems and lower GI symptoms which commonly include abdominal pain, bloating and constipation. Management of the gastro-intestinal symptoms is often challenging and is usually focused on lifestyle and dietary optimisation with the judicious use of medication to target particular symptoms.