Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Support Group

I wanted to know if you guys dont mind sharing what your quality of life is and how much do you feel EDS has limited your ability.

I have had worsening symptoms for the last year and am in a bit of pain. my dream has been to be a physician as long as i can remember. after being diagnosed a month ago and having worsening of my symptoms i am wondering how attainable my goal really is. my question really is - will i be able to practice medicine effectively enough in 10 yrs? or will my health deteriorate to the point that i would be risking the quality of care my patients will receive

I had similar thoughts. I went to school for international business, and then 2 years ago, decided to go to nursing school. Realized there was no way I would be able to lift people or be on my feet as long as I would need to be to be an effective nurse. Decided to go back to school instead for education. I don't know if I would've been able to do that, but at this point in my life (I'm 28), I'd like to get stronger and healthier before I go back to school and/or change careers. I have a lot of things I'd love to do.

One thing to remember: don't not do something because of a what if. This condition effects everyone in very different ways. Don't hold back on your dreams because you might end up with issues later on in life. Who knows, you may be just fine working as a doctor 20 or 30 years down the road!!!

hi i agree with kristin , also with physio you can manage and also act as a preventive measure , you have to get good with planning your life as well, also 10 years is good if you can do it , could you then not change to be a family doctor which even if you are on sticks or in a wheelchair you could still do i would have thought it may be diffcult but managable ? I suppose another problem is how you react to any medication you take alot of mine makes me muddled and confused , but we are all different. i managed partime college for four years, but can not work now though i have 3 children to look after as well and thats a struggle but i muddle through im now 37. Could you speak to your doctor about it as they have been through it and know about your condition as well , could you later switch to research if you get worse ? you many not it may stay the same for years or improve? Try and speak to other doctors who may be disabled and how they cope . Good luck