The Vascular type of EDS is characterized by thin, translucent skin that bruises easily but is not necessarily particularly stretchy, and spontaneous dilation / rupture of arteries and organs (Byers et al, 2017). The problem lies in the production of type 3 collagen. There is also a characteristic facial appearance:

Protruding eyes,

Thin nose and lips,

Sunken cheeks, and

Small chin.

Hypermobility is typically found in the small joints of the hands. Other (non skin) features akin to other forms of EDS may also be found such as hip dislocation and clubfoot. The major causes for concern in this condition arise because of fragility of the blood vessels, gut wall, and uterus. There is a risk for rupture of any of these structures, which may be life threatening.

About a quarter of individuals with vEDS experience significant medical problems by the time they are 20 years of age. More than 80% of individuals experience major problems by the age of 40. Because of this life expectancy is shortened in vEDS.

July is Chronic Illness Awareness Month, and I want to take a moment to talk about something that affects millions of people every day.

When people hear the words chronic illness, they often think of conditions like cancer. But chronic illnesses include so much more. They can be autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, chronic pain disorders, heart or lung diseases, diabetes, neurological conditions, mental health conditions, and many other long-term health challenges.

I live with chronic illnesses myself, and I know how exhausting they can be. They're not just about physical symptoms. They can affect your energy, your relationships, your work, your confidence, and even the simple things people often take for granted. You may stare at yourself in the mirror and think you’re disgusting, but you’re not, you never were, never are and never will be. You’re a human struggling and that’s okay.

One of the hardest parts is that many chronic illnesses are invisible. Someone may look "fine" on the outside while fighting a battle you can't see.

If you're living with a chronic illness, I hope you know this: your experiences are real, your struggles are valid, and you don't have to "look sick" for your illness to matter. Be patient with yourself. Celebrate the small wins. Rest when your body asks for it. You deserve kindness—from others and from yourself.

And if someone in your life is living with a chronic illness, one of the greatest things you can offer is understanding. Listen, believe them, and remember that everyone's journey is different.

This July, let's raise awareness, replace judgment with compassion, and remind those living with chronic illnesses that they are seen, heard, and never alone.

This month is for everyone—those who know something is wrong but don't yet know what it is, and those who know exactly what they're facing and continue to fight every single day.

‘but you seem fine!’ 🥄✨

Art by Liberal Jane