11/05/2023
For many people, the journey to a diagnosis of an Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) or hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) has been a long and challenging road. Poor awareness of the conditions amongst medical and healthcare professionals means they can go undiagnosed for many years. People are often misdiagnosed with other conditions, being given incorrect or unnecessary treatment, or no treatment at all. Early diagnosis and recognition of EDS and HSD are key to improving quality of life.
A greater understanding of the complexities and multi-systemic nature of EDS and some types of HSD from health professionals in all aspects of care, including rheumatology, physiotherapy, and nursing, can ensure a quicker diagnosis and more appropriate care.
Societal awareness and understanding of these conditions, their comorbidities, and chronic illness, in general, can also vastly improve the lives of our community. From education to employment, from relationships to friendships, and in understanding disability and often-invisible illness: understanding the impact these conditions have on our lives, and their fluctuating nature, goes so far in improving well-being. May is EDS and HSD Awareness Month – let’s join in raising awareness together.
Click here to find out how you can get involved this May: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/help/raise-money-in-your-community/mayawareness/
