Why Do We Hide Inflammatory Arthritis Pain?

Why do so many people with inflammatory arthritis say “I’m fine” when they’re not? In this episode, Debbie and Katy reflect on masking pain, stress-triggered flares, and the emotional impact of diagnosis. They discuss how overwhelming early treatment decisions can be, why people diagnosed young often feel embarrassed talking about it, and how hearing others’ perspectives can reveal what friends and family don’t always see.

They also highlight the importance of community, from role models like Kathleen Turner to the online spaces helping people feel less alone, and share updates from Inflammatory Arthritis UK ahead of the British Society for Rheumatology conference.

Key words

Inflammatory arthritis, autoimmune disease, masking pain, invisible illness, community, diagnosis, medication, shielding, family impact, mental health, stress, flare-ups, rheumatology, social prescribing, physiotherapy, lived experience, charity work

Key topics

• Masking pain and pretending to be “fine”

• The impact of stress and life changes on flare-ups

• Diagnosis overwhelm and medication fears

• Forgetting trauma as a coping mechanism

• Embarrassment and stigma around young diagnosis

• Shielding during COVID and explaining immunosuppression

• The power of online communities

• Representation and role models

• The impact of inflammatory arthritis on family members

• Supporting healthcare professionals and fitness professionals with education

• Building a charity rooted in lived experience

Key Takeaways

• “Every time we say we’re fine, actually we’re not.”

• Diagnosis is overwhelming — physically and emotionally.

• Community doesn’t have to be in person.

• Being believed can be life-changing.

• Family members are impacted too — and their voices matter.

Upcoming Episode – We Want to Hear From You

We’re planning an episode focused on the family perspective.

• Are you a partner, parent, sibling, or friend of someone with inflammatory arthritis?

• How has it impacted you?

• What questions do you have?

• What support would help you?

All responses can be anonymous.

Email us: info@inflammatoryarthritis.org or DM us on social media

Connect with us Website: InflammatoryArthritis.org
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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/