Because your GI tract is made primarily from connective tissue, EDS can cause a number of GI symptoms.
Dr. Qassim Aziz's talk on GI complications
as many nerves in the gut as in spinal cord
interactions between nerves and collagen
3 main problems: mechanical, sensitive gut, leaky gut
Mechanical problems:
"tap water vs hose" -- too stretchy = slows the flow
weak nerves and muscles in gut (+ poor coordination) → also, when too floppy, nerves can get damaged and/or over-sensitive
Mechanical problem symptoms:
Reflux (and feels more intense than other people -- HSP?)
Swallowing problems
functional dyspepsia **50% of patients with functional dyspepsia meet criteria for hEDS
Sharp stomach pain, tightness, nausea, some vomiting, MUCH bloating
Slow or rapid emptying of stomach (often with POTS)
Constipation from not moving correctly
Pelvic floor issues (rectocele more common in hEDS)
Stagnation, sluggish gut, unhealthy bacteria fermentation → flatulence and small intestine bacterial overgrowth
Sensitive gut:
Sensitization of nerves in esophagus, gut, spine
Anterior abdominal wall pain -- trigger points in the ab muscles, can be triggered by movement or gut activity, etc, cutaneous nerves trapped → burning pain (treatable)
Leaky gut:
intestinal barrier dysfunction, mast cell activation, etc
Diarrhea, gas, pain, etc
POTS and gut issues:
tired, dizzy, drowsy, have to lie down after meals
Because of blood flow to gut?
Rapid stomach emptying, especially carbs/sugars → osmosis issues from too much fluid dumped at once?
limit liquids before/after meals, lie down for 30 mins after, increase fat/protein, be mindful of glycemic index
Other thoughts:
Empathy and reassurance from physicians is so important, and explanation
Overlap with IBD, celiac, AI CTD
Not solved by x-rays or structural investigation -- more sensitivity tests
Avoid opioids
Get psych and other physicians involved who know/believe EDS
Often FODMAP issues, and low-histamine diet for MCAS
Developing a diet for hEDS patients with gut issues!