Self‐reported throat symptoms in <scp>Ehlers–Danlos</scp> syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders: A cross‐sectional survey study

Abstract Objectives This study identified the frequency and severity of dysphagia, dysphonia, laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms in people with Ehlers–Danlos syndromes (EDS) or hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) explored differences between diagnostic groups. Methods Participants were recruited via non‐probability convenience sampling. Information was gathered online survey, including Reflux Symptom Index (RSI; Belafsky et al., J Voice . 2002;16:274–277), Eating Drinking Assessment Tool (EAT‐10; Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2008;117:919–924), Handicap (VHI; Jacobson Am Speech Lang Pathol 1997;6(3):66–70). These analyzed using ANOVAs. Results There 1620 participants (96.6% female, 2.8% male) that met inclusion criteria. The mean age 38.09 (SD 12.22). 75.51% had hypermobile EDS (hEDS), 17.83% HSD 3.33% classic (cED). cohort's scores RSI = 22.95 9.01), EAT‐10 11.91 9.66), VHI score 31.99 24.36). hEDS group significantly higher than on some items, all one item. Conclusion People EDS/HSD experience acid reflux, dysphonia to varying degrees significant HSD. Awareness impact throat will enable health care professionals anticipate more readily this population, providing individualized effective management plans. Level Evidence IV.