What's life like with two types of inflammatory arthritis?

James Hollens joins us on Inflammatory! to share his honest and emotional journey of living with two types of inflammatory arthritis, whilst keeping his sense of humour, it is a very funny and honest episode. He talks about the sudden joint pain that hit in his early twenties, the months of misdiagnoses, and the moment a rheumatologist finally recognised rheumatoid arthritis. At just 21, James had to face the shock, stigma, and mental toll of a lifelong diagnosis far earlier than he ever expected.His story then takes us to China, where a new wave of intense back pain landed him in an emergency hospital and a suspected diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis. Navigating a foreign healthcare system, language barriers, and a specialist shutdown during Chinese New Year made the experience even more daunting. Returning to the UK brought answers, faster treatment, and eventually a confirmed AS diagnosis, followed by a long recovery supported by biologics, physio, and major lifestyle shifts.We also dive into the emotional side of chronic illness,from pandemic isolation to the mental health battles many patients face. James shares how lock-down volunteering grew into a thriving social media presence where he raises awareness, builds community, and spreads humour and honesty, including his popular “prick & pic” travel series. He closes with heartfelt advice to his younger self about shame, vulnerability, and finding support sooner.Key Topics CoveredEarly symptoms and repeated misdiagnosesReceiving an RA diagnosis at age 21Living abroad and a second suspected diagnosis (AS)Navigating a foreign medical system and language barriersReturning to the UK for answers and treatmentRecovery with biologics, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changesMental health challenges and pandemic isolationHow volunteering led to chronic illness advocacy onlineTravelling with medication & the “prick & pic” seriesAdvice for his younger self:don’t be ashamedopen up soonerfind communitycare for mental & physical healthstop fighting yourselfConnect with James: Instagram: @JamesHollensConnect With Us: Follow Inflammatory Arthritis UK and the podcast on: Instagram | BlueSky | Facebook | LinkedIn💬 Please like, share, and comment to help us reach more people.⭐ And don’t forget to rate and follow the podcast wherever you listen! Coming UpWe have two more episodes before our festive break,including another special guest and our reflections on the past year—plus our favourite moments!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/