Accurate EDS Diagnosis You Can Trust in Ohio

Getting Diagnosed for EDS

If you find that you have symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, talking to your doctor about getting diagnosed may be your next step. EDS has historically been difficult to diagnose in its early stages since many of its signs overlap with other conditions. The process of diagnosis begins with identifying what type of EDS corresponds best with a patient’s symptoms.

Getting Diagnosed

Defining all symptoms and answering questions related to hypermobility, habits, and pain is the first step to EDS diagnosis. An Ehlers-Danlos syndrome diagnosis can be made when any of the three major criteria are present; these include skin hyperextensibility, poor wound healing, and joint hypermobility. Minor criteria are also accounted for during diagnosis, such as bruising, tissue fragility, surgical complications, and texture of skin. In your initial examination, you will assess your joint hypermobility using the Beighton Scale, which results in a numerical value that will help define what type of EDS you may have. The physician might also examine your jawbone structure to identify areas of discomfort in those regions.

Your doctor will want to know if any of your family members have ever been diagnosed with any type of EDS or have common symptoms. After confirming family history, your doctor could recommend genetic testing. These tests help rule out other conditions that can easily be disguised as EDS and help further specify what type of EDS a patient might have. If vascular issues are present, an initial examination could also include an echocardiogram. A skin biopsy may also be conducted to account for any collagen abnormalities.

After Treatment

Since diagnosing EDS and TMJ can be a difficult process, it is essential to find a specialist who is an expert in these fields. Our dentist focuses his practice around EDS and TMJ, and he is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a Diplomate of the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine, and a member of the Ehlers-Danlos National Foundation Professional Advisory Network. As a leader in EDS and TMJ treatment, our dentists are trusted all over the world.Contact the TMJ Treatment Center to schedule an appointment and learn more about the treatment options for EDS and TMJ.