Main types of EDS

EDS-hypermobile type is the most common type of EDS. Rarer types include classical EDS, vascular EDS and kyphoscoliotic EDS.

EDS-hypermobile type

EDS-hypermobile type (EDS-HT), also known as hypermobile EDS or EDS type III, is often thought to be the same as or very similar to another condition called joint hypermobility syndrome .

People with EDS-HT may have:

• joint hypermobility
• loose, unstable joints that dislocate easily
• joint pain and clicking joints
• extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• skin that bruises easily
• digestive problems, such as heartburn and constipation
• dizziness and an increased heart rate after standing up
• problems with internal organs, such as mitral valve prolapse or organ prolapse
• problems with bladder control ( stress incontinence )

Currently, there are no tests to confirm whether someone has EDS-HT. The diagnosis is made based on a person's medical history and a physical examination.

Classical EDS

Classical EDS (previously EDS types I and II)is less common than hypermobile EDS and tends to affect the skin more.

Peoplewith classical EDS may have:

• joint hypermobility
• loose, unstable joints that dislocate easily
• stretchy skin
• fragile skinthat can split easily especially over the forehead, knees, shins and elbows
• smooth, velvety skin that bruises easily
• wounds that are slow to heal and leavewide scars
• hernias and organ prolapse

Vascular EDS

Vascular EDS (previously EDS type IV)is a rare type of EDS and is often considered to be the most serious. It affects the blood vessels and internal organs, which can cause them tosplit openand lead to life-threatening bleeding.

People with vascular EDS may have:

• skin that bruises very easily
• thin skin with visible small blood vessels, particularly on the upper chest and legs
• fragile blood vessels that can bulge or tear, resulting in serious internal bleeding
• a risk of organ problems, such as the bowel tearing, the womb tearing (in late pregnancy) and partial collapse of the lung
• hypermobile fingers and toes, unusual facial features, (such as a thin nose and lips, large eyes and small earlobes), varicose veins and delayed wound healing

Kyphoscoliotic EDS

Kyphoscoliotic EDS (previously EDS type VI) is rare.

Peoplewith kyphoscoliotic EDS may have:

• curvature of the spinethis starts in early childhoodand often gets worse in the teenage years
• joint hypermobility
• loose, unstable joints that dislocate easily
• weak muscle tone from childhood( hypotonia ) thismay cause a delay in sitting and walking, or difficulty walking if symptoms get worse
• fragile eyesthat can easily be damaged
• soft, velvety skin that is stretchy, bruises easily and scars