Autoimmunity and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): Why Autoimmune Conditions Are More Common in EDS
- Muriel
- Jul 19, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 31, 2025
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of genetic connective tissue disorders that affect the structure and function of collagen throughout the body. Traditionally viewed as a structural or musculoskeletal condition, EDS is now increasingly recognised as a multisystem disorder with immune, neurological, and for some vascular involvement.
Research has revealed a compelling link between EDS and autoimmunity, with many individuals reporting symptoms or diagnoses of autoimmune diseases, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS). These overlapping conditions point to deeper immune dysregulation that goes beyond connective tissue fragility alone.
In this post, we explore the growing evidence connecting Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and autoimmune disease, the potential biological mechanisms that link them, and the implications for diagnosis and management within a functional medicine framework.
Navigating the Healthcare System
If you suspect an autoimmune component to your EDS symptoms, discussing this with your GP can be an important first step.
→ Not sure how to start that conversation with your GP? Our practitioners can help you prepare your questions, interpret your results, and explore the next steps. Feel free to book a discovery call to discuss how we can support you in managing your condition more effectively.
Understanding Autoimmunity
Autoimmunity occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly targets its own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation, tissue injury, and multisystem dysfunction.
Autoimmune diseases can affect virtually any organ or system, and include conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
The development of autoimmune disease typically arises from a combination of:
Genetic susceptibility (particularly variations in HLA genes)
Environmental and infectious triggers
Increased intestinal permeability (commonly known as “leaky gut”)
Immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation
In the context of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, these mechanisms appear to converge, creating a physiological environment that can predispose individuals to autoimmune reactivity.
The Connection Between Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Autoimmunity
Although EDS is classified as a genetic connective tissue disorder, mounting clinical evidence shows that immune dysregulation plays a role in symptom expression and disease overlap.
Below are key factors that may explain the connection.
Dysregulated Immune Response
Recent studies suggest that individuals with EDS show alterations in immune system activity, including:
Overproduction of inflammatory cytokines
Altered antibody profiles
Aberrant T-cell and B-cell function
These abnormalities can lead to chronic low-grade inflammation and increased susceptibility to autoimmune processes.
Furthermore, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)—a condition frequently seen in individuals with EDS—can amplify immune reactivity. Mast cells, when overactive, release inflammatory mediators that contribute to symptoms such as pain, flushing, fatigue, gastrointestinal distress, and neurological symptoms. This mast cell-driven inflammation may act as a trigger or amplifier for autoimmune activity.
Shared Genetic Pathways
Genes involved in collagen formation and immune system regulation overlap significantly. Mutations in COL3A1, COL5A1, and other collagen-related genes can alter connective tissue integrity, while variations in HLA-DR and immune regulatory genes can predispose to autoimmune disease.
It is likely that the same genetic vulnerabilities that lead to tissue fragility also affect immune signalling and tolerance, blurring the line between structural and immunological dysfunction.
Overlapping Clinical Features
EDS and autoimmune diseases often share symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. Common overlapping symptoms include:
Chronic joint and muscle pain
Fatigue and exercise intolerance
Gastrointestinal symptoms (bloating, reflux, altered motility)
Skin manifestations such as rashes or delayed wound healing
Neurological issues including dysautonomia and brain fog
Because these symptoms can mimic both autoimmune and connective tissue disorders, many individuals with EDS experience diagnostic delays or incomplete recognition of their overlapping immune-related conditions.
Common Autoimmune Diseases Associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Research and clinical observation suggest a higher prevalence of certain autoimmune diseases among individuals with EDS. These include:
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
A chronic autoimmune disease characterised by inflammation and destruction of joint tissue. Studies have noted increased joint hypermobility in patients with RA, and conversely, inflammatory features suggestive of RA in individuals with EDS.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
SLE affects multiple organ systems and is characterised by widespread immune activation and autoantibody production. Connective tissue involvement and immune dysregulation in EDS may overlap with lupus-like presentations.
Sjögren’s Syndrome
This autoimmune condition primarily affects moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes and dry mouth. The shared immune abnormalities in EDS, such as cytokine imbalance and altered immune tolerance, may increase susceptibility to Sjögren’s.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Other Endocrine Autoimmunities
Thyroid autoimmunity is frequently reported in those with EDS, potentially linked to shared HLA variants and chronic immune activation. Other endocrine autoimmune conditions, such as Addison’s disease, have also been observed.
Many individuals with EDS also meet criteria for mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS).
These conditions share a foundation of immune dysregulation and excessive inflammatory signalling, which can contribute to or exacerbate autoimmune activity.
MCAS: Mast cells release inflammatory mediators such as histamine, prostaglandins, and cytokines that can affect vascular tone, gut permeability, and neurological function. Persistent mast cell activation can create a pro-inflammatory environment that fuels autoimmunity.
CIRS: Often triggered by chronic biotoxin exposure (such as mould or Lyme-related organisms), CIRS is characterised by abnormal immune regulation, cytokine imbalance, and hormonal disruption. The overlap between CIRS, EDS, and autoimmune disease suggests that chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation may be shared drivers rather than separate entities.
Recognising and addressing MCAS and CIRS in individuals with EDS can therefore be an essential part of reducing autoimmune activity and restoring immune balance.
The Functional Medicine Approach: Addressing the Root Causes
A functional medicine approach to EDS and autoimmunity goes beyond symptom management to address the underlying biological imbalances driving immune dysfunction. Key strategies include:
Comprehensive Testing when relevant: Assessment of autoantibodies, cytokines, mast cell mediators, HLA genetics, and environmental toxins (including mould and infections).
Gut Health Support: Repairing intestinal permeability and restoring microbial balance to reduce systemic inflammation.
Mast Cell Stabilisation: Using diet, nutrients, and targeted supplements to calm mast cell activity and reduce histamine load.
Environmental Factors: Identifying and removing exposure to biotoxins or environmental triggers that perpetuate immune activation.
Nervous System Regulation: Supporting vagal tone and autonomic balance, which are often disrupted in EDS, MCAS, and CIRS.
Nutrient and Hormonal Support: Addressing deficiencies in vitamin D, zinc, B vitamins, and adrenal function to improve immune resilience.
Supporting Individuals with EDS and Autoimmune Conditions at The Autoimmune Clinic
At The Autoimmune Clinic, we recognise the complexity of conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, where connective tissue fragility intersects with immune dysfunction.
Led by Muriel Wallace-Scott, our clinical team provides comprehensive assessments and personalised protocols to identify immune triggers, stabilise mast cell activity, and support connective tissue repair.
Our approach includes:
Identifying links between EDS, MCAS, CIRS, and autoimmune activity
Developing tailored nutrition and supplement plans for immune and connective tissue support
Supporting detoxification pathways and nervous system regulation
Offering ongoing review and adjustments as health stabilises and improves
We work collaboratively with medical professionals and specialists to ensure every client receives evidence-based, integrative care.
A Personal Note from Muriel Wallace-Scott
“Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is something very close to my heart, as I live with this condition myself. I understand first-hand the complexity of managing EDS — the physical challenges, the fluctuating energy, the multi-system symptoms, and the emotional toll that can come with it. This lived experience drives my passion to support others on a similar journey. My aim is to help individuals not only manage their symptoms but rebuild stability, confidence, and quality of life.”
In Summary
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is more than a connective tissue disorder. For many, it exists on a spectrum that includes immune dysregulation, MCAS, CIRS, and autoimmune disease.
By recognising and addressing the shared mechanisms—genetic, inflammatory, and environmental—practitioners can provide more accurate diagnoses and effective, personalised care.
If you are living with EDS and symptoms of autoimmunity, our team at The Autoimmune Clinic can help you explore the root causes of inflammation, regulate your immune system, and restore long-term balance.
