Inflammatory!

Inflammatory Arthritis UK

Inflammatory! We want everyone to understand what life is like living with a chronic fluctuating disease. The founders of Inflammatory Arthritis UK, Debbie and Katy, give a unique insight into their lives covering the realities of living with inflammatory arthritis (IA) in a positive and friendly way. They will discuss popular topics and answer questions with honesty based on their experiences navigating life with IA.  Whether you’re personally affected, supporting a friend or family member, or simply seeking understanding, Inflammatory! is for you.

  1. Inflammatory arthritis: A Friend's Perspective

    2D AGO

    Inflammatory arthritis: A Friend's Perspective

    In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy are joined by Katy’s close friend Cat for an honest and heartfelt conversation about love, friendship, and living with chronic illness. Together, they reflect on the evolution of their friendship, the realities of navigating inflammatory arthritis, how it felt to see your closest friend physically struggle, and the power of communication, humour, and support. Through shared memories and personal stories, they explore how diagnosis can reshape relationships and why awareness and understanding matter more than ever.Key topics: The theme of the month is love, friendship, and chronic illness.Friendship can evolve from work colleagues to lifelong companions.Understanding inflammatory arthritis requires open communication and education.Memories from shared experiences can highlight the onset of symptoms.Navigating a diagnosis can be challenging without clear communication.Chronic illness impacts relationships and requires support from friends.Hindsight often reveals what we wish we had known during difficult times.Supportive friendships are crucial for those living with chronic illness.Celebrating achievements despite challenges is important.Continuing the conversation about chronic illness helps raise awareness.Sound bites "I definitely think fun.""You deal with things with humour.""I think it was quite a shock."Connect with us Website: inflammatoryarthritis.orgNewsletter: Sign up on the websiteSocials: BlueSky, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedInDisclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

    24 min
  2. How does inflammatory arthritis affect friendships?

    FEB 6

    How does inflammatory arthritis affect friendships?

    Keywords chronic illness, inflammatory arthritis, support networks,medication management, health transparency, empathy, friendship, diagnosis,patient experience, healthcare Summary In this episode of Inflammatory! the hosts reflect on how stress, relationships, and chronic illness shape everyday life. Including the realities of moving house while managing refrigerated medication, highlighting the extra planning people with inflammatory conditions must navigate. They revisit last week’s guest, Haffy, and her experience of being diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis while pregnant and what that means for decision-making and self-advocacy. A key theme is frustration with NHS systems and the lack of easy access to personal blood test results, despite growing calls for shared decision-making in healthcare. With February’s theme of love, friendship, and chronic illness, Debbie and Katy discuss how living with inflammatory arthritis affects relationships, including: Key topics:     Managing medications during a move can be stressful. Support networks are crucial for those with chronic illnesses. Transparency in medical data is essential for patient empowerment. Explaining chronic illness to friends requires honesty and openness. Empathy is key in understanding the challenges of chronic illness. It’s important to recognize true friends during difficult times. Chronic illness can change social dynamics and friendships. Patients should have access to their medical information. Living with chronic illness involves a continuous learning process. Finding a supportive community can greatly enhance the patient experience. Sound bites "Why can't we see our blood test results?" "It's a new life. It's a new chapter." Connect with us Website: inflammatoryarthritis.org Newsletter: Sign up on the website Socials: BlueSky, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. ·       For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    23 min
  3. Pregnant & diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis

    JAN 30

    Pregnant & diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis

    In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Inflammatory! Debbie and Katy are joined by Haffy, a clinical pharmacist, university lecturer, and mum of two, who shares her journey of being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and undifferentiated mixed connective tissue disease in her late 20s.Despite her medical background, Haffy’s diagnosis was delayed, highlighting the challenges of being a young woman with inflammatory arthritis and the importance of self-advocacy. She opens up about pregnancy, motherhood, cultural expectations, navigating work, and finally finding the right treatment that transformed her quality of life.This is an honest, emotional, and inspiring conversation about resilience, trust in your body, and making the most of the good days. Key topics discussed Early symptoms of inflammatory arthritis and delayed diagnosisLiving with rheumatoid arthritis in your 20sBeing dismissed due to age and “normal” blood resultsThe emotional impact of misdiagnosis and missed test resultsPregnancy, fertility, and treatment decisions with inflammatory arthritisBalancing motherhood, chronic illness, and a demanding careerCultural attitudes toward illness and “just getting on with it”The importance of support systems and finding your “village”DMARDs, treatment side effects, and finally finding the right medicationLearning to pace yourself and protect your mental healthAdvocating for yourself within the healthcare systemMemorable takeaways You are the expert in your own body.Trust your instincts, if something feels wrong, keep pushing for answers.Chronic illness doesn’t stop at joints; it affects your whole life.Pregnancy decisions with inflammatory arthritis are deeply personal.The right treatment can be truly life-changing.Good support, family, work, and healthcare makes all the difference.Resources and links 🌐 Visit: inflammatoryarthritis.org📩 Sign up for the Inflammatory Arthritis UK newsletter🎥 Watch the episode on YouTube⭐ Rate & follow the podcast wherever you listenDisclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    22 min
  4. What does AI mean for inflammatory arthritis?

    JAN 23

    What does AI mean for inflammatory arthritis?

    Keywords: inflammatory arthritis, AI in healthcare, personalized medicine, early diagnosis, chronic illness, patient care, healthcare technology, living with arthritis, health podcast, medical advancementsIn this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy dive into the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and what it could mean for people living with inflammatory arthritis. They talk openly about the promise of AI, from helping personalise treatment to supporting earlier diagnosis, while also reflecting on the very real challenges of living with a long-term condition.Alongside the tech talk, the conversation keeps coming back to what really matters: human connection. Debbie and Katy explore why empathy, understanding and being truly heard can’t be replaced by algorithms, no matter how advanced they become. They also touch on the everyday realities of chronic illness, including fatigue, invisible symptoms and the importance of learning to advocate for your own health.The episode wraps up with a fun quickfire round, where the hosts share their honest thoughts on AI, data and the future of healthcare.Key topics: How AI has been around for decades and why it’s now becoming more visible in healthcareWhy personalised medicine matters so much for inflammatory arthritisThe life-changing impact of early diagnosisWhy human care and compassion must stay at the heart of healthcareFatigue and other invisible symptoms that are too often overlookedHow AI could reduce trial-and-error when prescribing medicationsThe importance of speaking up and advocating for yourselfWhy AI data needs to represent all patients, not just a fewLiving in the moment with a chronic conditionHow AI could give healthcare professionals more time to focus on patientsA thoughtful, honest conversation about balancing innovationwith humanity and putting people first. Sound Bites "You know your body better than anyone.""We need to advocate for our health.""AI predictions: trust or side-eye?"Keep connected Please do rate, follow and download the podcast andsubscribe to our YouTubechannel Follow us on social media: Search Inflammatory Arthritis UKon Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky and LinkedIn Sign up to our newsletter at https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/ Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medicalprofessionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personalhealth journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for anylosses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. ·       Formore information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    26 min
  5. What is Spoon Theory?

    JAN 16

    What is Spoon Theory?

    Keywords: chronic illness, spoon theory, energy management, school absences, NHS online hospitals, parenting, inflammatory arthritis, healthcare, pets, community support In this episode, Debbie and Katy discuss the challenges faced by parents of children with chronic illnesses, particularly in relation to school absences and the perception of illness by educational institutions. They delve into the concept of spoon theory, which illustrates how individuals with chronic conditions manage their energy levels throughout the day. The conversation also touches on the emotional support provided by pets, the potential impact of NHS online hospitals on patient care, and the importance of community engagement in navigating these challenges.Key Topics covered: Parenting, illness, and January fatigueSchool absence and chronic conditions (including JIA)Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs)Spoon theory and energy managementPacing, boundaries, and prioritisationMedication-related fatiguePomodoro technique and life “project management”GPS theory of life and non-linear progressSocial media comparisons and chronic illnessPets as emotional supportFriendships and chronic illness (preview)NHS online hospitals and digital healthcare concernsHelpful Resources & Stay connected Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) – via the Healthcare in Schools Alliancehttp://healthconditionsinschools.org.uk/Follow Inflammatory Arthritis UK on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and BlueSkyPlease rate and review the podcast — it really helps others find us 💛Manage your spoons, pace yourself, and remember: my pace, not yours Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys, and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    24 min
  6. My Pace Not Yours - 1 year of Inflammatory Arthritis UK

    JAN 9

    My Pace Not Yours - 1 year of Inflammatory Arthritis UK

    Keywords: New Year, holiday experiences, illness impact, darts, self-care, resolutions, FOMO, JOMO, inflammatory arthritis, charity goals #MyPaceNotYours, Empowering patientsIn this episode, Debbie and Katy reflect on their holiday experiences, discuss the impact of illness on celebrations, and share their newfound interest in darts. They celebrate the one-year anniversary of their podcast, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the shift from New Year's resolutions to more sustainable intentions. The conversation also touches on the concepts of FOMO and JOMO, the challenges of managing inflammatory arthritis in winter, the goals for their charity in the coming year and their theme for January #MyPaceNotYours.They finish by talking about confidence in healthcare appointments, the importance of remembering that you are the expert in your own body, and how mutual respect between patients, parents, and clinicians is key.Topics covered in this episode: Christmas, New Year & managing fatigueCold weather, flares & winter symptomsOne year of Inflammatory Arthritis UKPressure of New Year’s resolutions“My pace, not yours”Incremental change vs unrealistic goalsFOMO vs JOMOSelf-compassion & pacing with IAConfidence in healthcare appointmentsBeing the expert in your own lived experienceAdvocacy, awareness & sharing IA storiesGet Involved: Visit: inflammatoryarthritis.orgSign up to the newsletter for podcast updates, events & research opportunitiesFollow Inflammatory Arthritis UK on BlueSky, Facebook, LinkedIn & InstagramSubscribe to our YouTube channel: Inflammatory Arthritis UKPlease rate, follow & share the podcast, it really helps others find us 💙Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    23 min
  7. Does life with inflammatory arthritis ever go to plan?

    12/19/2025

    Does life with inflammatory arthritis ever go to plan?

    This week’s podcast episode didn't go entirely to plan so we decided to have a shorter relaxed end-of-year chat with quite a few laughs and festive outfits (you can watch the episode on YouTube!). Make sure you listen right to the end of the episode to hear our bloopers and outtakes, they’re too good (and too embarrassing) not to share. What we discuss: How exhausting this time of year can be (even when good things are happening)Debbie celebrating her Nan’s 100th birthday 🥳 — including a very special card from the King and Queen The reality of podcast bloopers, outtakes, and why our intros take longer than the actual episode Christmas onesies, sparkly jumpers, and making an effort (even when you’re knackered) Sending love to those celebrating Hanukkah and to friends in Australia during a difficult time Being very unprepared for Christmas How hard it is to buy presents for kids and partners who “don’t want anything” Moving house stress and a Christmas tree that’s up… but not decorated Why New Year’s resolutions don’t really work for us anymore Introducing our January theme: #MyPaceNotYours How do you set goals when your body doesn’t always cooperate? A look ahead to February, where we’ll be talking about love, friendship, and chronic illness A huge thank you to everyone who’s listened, followed, messaged, and supported us this year Stay connected: We’d love to hear your thoughts for #MyPaceNotYours Follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen Follow us on social media (and thank you for helping us grow!) Sign up to our newsletter at inflammatoryarthritis.org for updates, research, and events We will be back in January with new episodes (and a postponed guest!). Until then, take care of yourselves, rest when you need to, and go at your pace. 💛 Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. ·       For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    11 min
  8. How did we survive inflammatory arthritis in 2025?

    12/12/2025

    How did we survive inflammatory arthritis in 2025?

    Keywords:  Darts, Fitness, Running, Mental Health, Community, Podcast, Christmas, Health Challenges, Strength Training, Autoimmune Disease Debbie and Katy wrap up the year with a warm, funny, and reflective catch-up. Katy shares her unexpected victory at a work darts tournament and recaps her chilly final 10K of the year, complete with a painful lesson in running gear. Debbie talks about flare-ups, stress, and picking up her daughter’s cold while trying to keep everything in balance. Together, they look back on their favourite episodes, the importance of strength training, mental health, and how hard it can be to juggle fitness with chronic illness. They also celebrate listener feedback, their growing global audience (hello Australia and Norway!), and the power of lived experience within the inflammatory arthritis community. The hosts chat about changing Christmas party trends, from darts to aquariums, and share some exciting plans for the podcast in the new year, including new guests, new trustees, and more community-focused content. Key Topics Katy’s Flight Club darts triumph Running injuries, rest, and balancing multiple sports Debbie’s flare-ups, stress, and festive-season colds Strength training vs endurance and why it’s hard to balance both Reflections on mental health, vulnerability, and community support Spotify Wrapped listener stats Christmas party trends and alcohol habits New podcast plans and growing the charity’s reach Episodes Mentioned Strength Training (with Matt) 1% Better Sound System You Are Not Alone (mental health deep dive) Sex & Relationships Our Journey Begins Can You Keep Your Humour? Alcohol Episode Guest episodes with James, Rachel, Adam, and Sarah Follow us on social media: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram,LinkedIn and YouTube Disclaimer: Debbie and Katy are not medical professionals. They share personal experiences of living with IA to build connection and community. The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content. For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

    24 min
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About

Inflammatory! We want everyone to understand what life is like living with a chronic fluctuating disease. The founders of Inflammatory Arthritis UK, Debbie and Katy, give a unique insight into their lives covering the realities of living with inflammatory arthritis (IA) in a positive and friendly way. They will discuss popular topics and answer questions with honesty based on their experiences navigating life with IA.  Whether you’re personally affected, supporting a friend or family member, or simply seeking understanding, Inflammatory! is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Inflammatory Arthritis UK
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Inflammatory Arthritis UK
  • Show Website
    Inflammatory!