May is EDS/HSD Awareness Month!

People often go years without a diagnosis or proper care—which is why awareness of these conditions is so important—so that healthcare providers, educators, and communities can recognize these conditions sooner.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS):

The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are 13 different hereditary connective tissue disorders that cause a wide range of symptoms that can significantly impact quality of life, such as joint hypermobility, chronic pain, fatigue, joint instability, tissue injury, headache, anxiety, and gastrointestinal issues, among others. 

Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD):

Hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) is a related connective tissue disorder that involves joint hypermobility and pain. Like EDS, HSD can be accompanied by other symptoms that can be debilitating such as joint instability, tissue damage, headache, fatigue, and digestive problems. 

Many people with EDS/HSD also have conditions like dysautonomia (including POTS/postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), which can also deeply impact their life.

Living with these conditions can be incredibly challenging, isolating, and exhausting. There is no cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms to improve quality of life. 

When you hear hoofbeats, it might actually be a zebra—not a horse. Every person with EDS/HSD has a story worth hearing. 

Reference: The Ehlers-Danlos Society (2025)