Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Symptoms
Hyperelastic skin is a condition that results from a rare genetic disorder that is technically known as the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The condition is known to affect the connective tissues of the body that lend strength and support to the skin and muscles, especially around the joints. As a result, the skin becomes extremely loose, stretchable and fragile, and the blood vessels become prone to getting injured very easily, making the person susceptible to local injuries. The skin often looks too soft and smooth and shiny but lumps of fat deposits develop just beneath its surface and around areas that experience pressure and body joints like elbows, wrists, knuckles and knees. In addition, the skin develops fine scars and bruises quite easily and does not heal very well naturally. The joints may also become too flexible. The underlying problem is that the body tissues produce faulty collagen – the chemical compound that is responsible for giving the skin its natural texture and flexibility. Genetic counseling is required to treat this disorder. Surgical intervention may also become necessary in some cases. Since the patient may undergo physical disfigurement as a result of this ailment, a psychological support system comprising doctors, friends and family is also required.
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Treatment
There are a few preventive measures that patients of the Euler’s Danlos Syndrome should always follow. Since the hyperelastic skin is prone to wounds, the patient should avoid outdoor sports in order to minimize the risk of injuries to the skin and the joints. Other forms of physical activities like exercising at a gym should also be engaged in with great care, in consultation with a doctor and under the supervision of a professional trainer. Small children suffering from this condition are sometimes recommended to wear protective clothing padded with soft materials in order to cushion their soft and flexible joints from the shocks that minor accidents that could take place. It is also advisable that you keep your surroundings, both at home and at your office, free from clutter as far as possible, as this reduces the chances of banging against or tripping over something accidentally. Make sure that you handle objects with hard surfaces and sharp edges and corners with extra precaution. The use of supportive equipment such as jaw openers and braces is also helpful. You should also always apply sunscreen lotion all over your body before stepping outdoors during daytime, as hyperelastic skin is extremely sensitive to the harmful ultraviolet radiation of the sun. One could easily get sunburnt on prolonged exposure to sunlight.
