Confessions of a Loose Woman Trivia Quiz

Answer: India-Rubber Woman

In the 1800s, one of the most famous india-rubber or elastic skin sideshow people was named James Morris. He suffered from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and made up to $300 a week in the Barnum & Bailey Circus. He was able to grasp the skin of his neck and pull it up over his eyes. He stretched his skin to such unbelievable lengths that this ability made him very popular. Other sideshow personalities included bearded ladies, who suffered from different forms of hypertrichosis, and the Stiles family which was afflicted with ectrodactyly, commonly called "Lobster Claw" syndrome.

There were several so-called pig-faced ladies but all were hoaxes, the most famous being an intoxicated shaved bear wearing a dress.

Answer: French

Ehlers first identified the syndromes as a distinct condition in 1901, while Danlos focused on the elasticity and fragility of the skin as being the defining symptoms in 1908.

Answer: Connective tissues

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a genetic collagen deficiency disorder. I was born with this condition, which I could have inherited from one or both of my parents, or it could be the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. Inherited EDS runs true to type in families, but the intensity of presentation can vary between individuals.

In tracing my genetic history, my doctors suspect that my father exhibited a mild form of the type I have.

Answer: easily dislocated joints

The fragile skin and unstable joints are the most recognizable symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Due to a genetic defect, almost any body part can be affected because of a disorder of the collagen.

Answer: Hippocrates

Although he had no idea of the cause, Hippocrates recorded the symptoms of joint hyper mobility in 400 BC.

Answer: False

Unfortunately, it is rare for an early diagnosis to be made, with many sufferers being treated as hypochondriacs. It often takes many years before the condition is correctly diagnosed, by which time the afflicted person will have suffered unnecessary pain and psychological damage.

Answer: Vascular

This is a life-threatening version of EDS, as it can affect the blood vessels, including the aorta. If this major artery bursts, it is likely to lead to death. It can also cause the uterus to rupture during pregnancy, or the colon to tear.

Answer: Loose Connections

The magazine is available online on the Society's website, and offers details of the latest research as well as practical advice regarding living with the syndrome.

Answer: False

The condition can't be cured, at least not yet and care is focused on pain relief, with physical therapy. Some sufferers may even need surgery to stabilize joints which dislocate too easily. or need a wheelchair to get around.

Answer: May

In 2015 the slogan for Ehlers-Danlos Awareness Month was "Every Day Struggles - Every Day Successes", while the 2018 slogan was "Fragile but Unbreakable". The days are supported by the Ehlers-Danlos Society, a world wide group designed to offer support to people with the syndrome and their carers.