kEDS is a condition that falls under Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. It is characterized by scoliosis
and/or kyphosis, digestive system issues, easily scarred and bruised skin, joint stiffness, particularly in the
hands, back and neck, as well as muscle cramps and low muscle tone beginning in childhood.
EDS is a chronic condition that usually begins as minor symptoms in childhood and
into adolescence, and can become debilitating as one becomes an adult. The effects
vary depending on the classification of EDS your symptoms fall under, however a pattern
between many cases of the condition is extreme muscle weakness, deformities,
stretchiness, and/or bruising of the skin, and cardiovascular issues,
such as problems with the veins and arteries.
Also, able bodied and not visibly ill DOES NOT MEAN that you aren't still having issues!
I have seen a large stigma in this community over people who don't "look disabled." Just because it isn't
physically disabling, or isn't yet physically disabling, does not mean it is not serious or debilitating. One
example of a symptom that isn't physically disabling, but it is still very serious, painful or debilitating,
is that I experience occasional episodes of vomiting and severe stomach pain. This is very uncomfortable
and scary for me to experience, so it is still a disabling symptom.