Fact 12: Invisible Battles
While the physical manifestations of Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, like hypermobile joints or stretchy skin, are often visible, many of the battles EDS warriors face are invisible to the naked eye. These can range from chronic pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, to mental health challenges like anxiety or depression.
The unseen struggles often pose a significant challenge, both for the individuals and their caregivers. Because these symptoms aren’t “visible”, they often lead to misconceptions or underestimations about the severity of the condition. “But you look fine” is a phrase many with EDS might hear, highlighting the gap in understanding.
Furthermore, these invisible battles can have cascading effects. Chronic pain can disrupt daily routines, hinder productivity, and strain personal relationships. Similarly, gastrointestinal issues, a frequent challenge in EDS due to connective tissue’s role in the digestive system, can influence dietary choices, nutritional uptake, and overall health.
Mental health, a crucial component of the EDS narrative, requires equal attention. The continuous cycle of pain, fatigue, and other symptoms can understandably lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or isolation. It’s essential to recognize, validate, and address these challenges, offering support, therapy, and understanding. (12)
