Symptom 6: Poor Wound Healing
When most people get a cut or scrape, the body swiftly jumps into action, healing the wound in a matter of days. But for those with EDS, this process is neither quick nor efficient. Their skin, which is already more stretchable and fragile, struggles with wound healing. This isn’t a mere inconvenience; it’s a significant concern that can lead to prolonged open wounds, increasing the risk of infections.
At the heart of this delayed healing is collagen, the skin’s primary building block. In EDS patients, collagen formation is defective, making the skin less resilient. When the skin is injured, this defective collagen impacts the usual wound-healing cascade. The result? Wounds might take weeks, if not months, to heal completely.
Delayed wound healing isn’t the only concern. Once the wound does heal, it often leaves behind pronounced scars. These aren’t your typical faded scars but can be raised, widened, or discolored. In medical terms, they’re often termed “atrophic” scars due to their thin, wrinkled appearance. These scars can be painful, itchy, and aesthetically concerning for many.
For those with EDS, the age-old adage holds exceptionally true. Preventing wounds, even minor ones, is crucial. This could mean being extra cautious during activities, using protective gear, or even simple measures like moisturizing the skin regularly to prevent dryness and cracks. For wounds that do occur, specialized wound care, sometimes under the guidance of dermatologists, can aid in better and faster healing.
Every scar tells a tale, and for EDS patients, these tales are of resilience, patience, and sheer willpower. While the scars might seem like imperfections, many EDS patients wear them as badges of honor, symbols of their battles, and triumphs. (6)
