Inflammation Nation

In episode four of Inflammation Nation, Consultant Rheumatologist, Dr John Stack, chats with Peter Boyd about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. This podcast explores the evolving understanding of fibromyalgia, highlighting a shift toward validating the very real experiences of those affected. The discussion includes a focus on the fact that treatment is not always straightforward or a ‘one size fits all’ but, rather, a culmination of shared decision making between the patient and their healthcare provider to find a treatment plan that works best, addressing the most troubling symptoms, such as widespread pain, extreme fatigue, insomnia and mental health factors including anxiety and depression. For more information about Arthritis, you can visit our website – ⁠arthritisireland.ie⁠, or contact our helpline at 0818252846. -- Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer and Abbvie.

Arthritis Ireland CEO, Gráinne O'Leary, talks with Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Louise Moore, and Clinical Midwife Specialist, Celine O'Brien, about the challenges of a postpartum flare, and some practical tips that can help ease the burden. This includes a mix of self-care, lifestyle adjustments and working closely with your healthcare team to decide on appropriate medications that are compatible with breastfeeding during this time in order to achieve optimum control of an MSK condition whilst also protecting yourself and your baby. For more information about Arthritis, you can visit our website – arthritisireland.ie, or contact our helpline at 0818252846. -- Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer and Abbvie.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Tara Regan speaks with associate professor of psychology, Dr Joanna McHugh Power, about loneliness, particularly for those living with chronic conditions like arthritis. With Ireland recently named the ‘loneliest country in the EU,’ this is a timely discussion. Dr McHugh Power shares insights from her research and explores solutions to loneliness, highlighting that it’s not all down to simply socialising more or joining a group since the causes are multi-faceted, particularly for those managing chronic health challenges. For more information about Arthritis, you can visit our website – arthritisireland.ie, or contact our helpline at 0818252846. -- Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer and Abbvie.

In our first episode of series five of Inflammation Nation, Maebh Coyle meets with lecturer, researcher, psychologist and meditation teacher, Dr Pádraic Dunne to discuss the potential benefits of regular meditation for anyone living with a chronic condition like arthritis or a related condition. Dr Dunne, himself, lives with axSpA and has seen, first-hand, the extraordinary effects of regular meditation to help manage the pain and associated psychological stress of living with a chronic condition For more information about Arthritis, you can visit our website – arthritisireland.ie, or contact our helpline at 0818252846. -- Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer and Abbvie.

Calm your body, calm your mind: 10-minute meditation This 10-minute body scan meditation, guided by Dr. Pádraic Dunne, psychologist and meditation teacher at RCSI, is designed for people living with arthritis and related conditions. By gently bringing attention to different parts of the body, it should help you relax, reduce stress, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which may support your body’s natural anti-inflammatory response. This short practice will help ease tension, stiffness, and discomfort while promoting a sense of calm and wellbeing.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary engages in an insightful conversation with Dr Carmel Silke, Honorary Personal Professor of Medicine at the University of Galway and consultant rheumatologist at the North-West Rheumatology Unit based in Sligo and Manorhamilton. Together they explore the multifaceted concept of remission in arthritis, and how advancements in drug treatments have transformed inflammatory arthritis care, making remission a realistic goal for many people. The discussion emphasises the importance of early treatment, alongside the role of medication and lifestyle in achieving and maintaining remission. Additionally, it highlights patient education, evolving patient involvement, and considerations for tapering medication during remission.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Maebh Coyle meets Dr Jo Kitchen, a consultant rheumatologist from the Mater Hospital, Dublin, to discuss the ins and outs of medications typically used to treat arthritis. In this interview, Dr Kitchen discusses how biologics and other new drugs have changed the landscape for those living with inflammatory forms of arthritis, the various factors that can impact the effectiveness of medications (such as smoking or overweight/obesity, and whether or not there has been a delay in diagnosis where damage has already occurred to the joints), in addition to a new approaches in the use of steroids, knowledge around some possible side-effects of medications and how those are managed (and how patients are monitored when they start a new drug) as well as which drugs are safe to use during pregnancy.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Dr Ruth Usher, lecturer in occupational therapy in University College Cork to discuss the Advanced Healthcare Directive. They discuss the steps involved in creating one, including the legal formalities, the role of healthcare professionals, and the significance of appointing a designated healthcare representative.   They also have an in-depth discussion about Enduring Power of Attorney, a legal arrangement that enables you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the capacity to do so. They walk through the process of setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney, the legal requirements, and the importance of choosing the right person for this role. Ruth emphasises the importance of planning well ahead to ensure your wishes are honoured and to provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Peter Boyd meets Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist, Sandra Caulfield and Clinical Specialist MSK Podiatrist, Yvonne Buckley to discuss foot health and arthritis. This episode is a must listen for anyone seeking to gain insights into how arthritis impacts foot health and daily activities, learn about daily routines and practices to keep your feet in optimal condition, discover the importance of selecting the right footwear and orthotics and find out more about shoes that provide the best support and comfort for those living with arthritis.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets with occupational therapist Linda Horgan to discuss the concept of future-proofing your home. Together, they explore practical strategies, ensuring you can continue to enjoy the sanctuary of your home for years to come. From installing grab bars and handrails to enhancing lighting and eliminating tripping hazards, we'll cover the essential modifications that promote safety and prevent falls. By planning ahead and making thoughtful adjustments, you can ensure your home remains a place of comfort, safety, and peace of mind as you age. Tune in to discover how to create a living environment that supports your independence and well-being as your needs evolve.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Dr Kathy Gallagher, consultant paediatric rheumatologist. They discuss the different sub-types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), the symptoms of these subtypes, the path to diagnosis and treatment options. They delve into the daily challenges, the importance of validating the young person’s feelings and encouraging them to enjoy childhood activities such as school, sport, and friendships. They also discuss the importance of ongoing and future research and the transition stages from paediatric to adult services.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Tara Regan meets Dr Joan Ní Gabhann-Dromgoole, Senior Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences and Gráinne Tynan, senior occupational therapist and patient researcher in RCSI, who lives with Sjӧgrens disease. Gráinne shares her journey from diagnosis to day-to-day life, offering invaluable insights into managing the disease and her heartfelt advice for others facing similar challenges. Joan talks us through the exciting research that is now taking place for novel treatments and highlights the critical role of interdisciplinary research and collaboration, unlocking further opportunities for advancing understanding and treatment of the disease. For up-to-date, reliable information for the public and healthcare professionals, we recommend: https://sjogrensresearch-ireland.eu/ sjogrensireland.ie www.twitter.com/SjogrensIrl www.facebook.com/SjogrensIrl www.instagram.com/sjogrensirl Sjögren’s Ireland WhatsApp Support Group Sjögren’s Ireland has launched a new WhatsApp support group. To join, email [email protected] with your name and county of residence, and an admin will add you to the group. International Resources: https://sjogrens.org/

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Tara Regan meets Professor Oran Kennedy, Lecturer in the Department of Anatomy & Regenerative Medicine, at RCSI to discuss post traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). PTOA is a sub-type of osteoarthritis, that typically develops after joint injury or a trauma.  PTOA commonly has a known “starting point,” which means that interventions could theoretically be initiated at an early stage to prevent the progression of the disease. In this interview, Oran discusses how PTOA develops, risk factors, ongoing research and development in the field, preventative measures, treatment and opportunities for disease-modifying therapies.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Peter Boyd meets Professor Annie Curtis where they discuss our circadian rhythm, exposure to daylight and blue light, the impact of eating at specific times of the day and how this interacts with our sleep patterns. They also discuss the role of melatonin and cortisol and the connection between body clocks, inflammation and disease.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Dr Deirdre Lundy and Mary Gillespie to discuss joint health and menopause, overlapping symptoms and the role of HRT treatment. They also talk about a range of topics including the importance of sleep, managing stress, exercise and diet, reaching out for support and being an advocate for yourself.

In this episode, Gráinne O’Leary meets Dr Conor Hearty. They discuss different categories of pain, the point at which people should seek help, assessing patients and treatment options.  They also cover the importance of self-management and a collaborative approach for pain management including the biopsychosocial model. We also hear about medications used, the vulnerability of those who live with chronic pain, managing expectations and validating the individual experiences of pain.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Tara Regan meets Úna Martin and Dr Kate McCann to discuss the role of lifestyle medicine in making changes to your health and wellbeing. The interview breaks down the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine, with advice on how to get started, check progress and celebrate milestones. A new booklet with a step-by-step guide to incorporating lifestyle medicine into your life, written by a specialist team of healthcare professionals is now available to view on the Arthritis Ireland website. Download.ashx (arthritisireland.ie)

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Andrew McCann to discuss the complex area of rights and entitlements.  This is an in-depth discussion that covers a multitude of topics, including, the importance of seeking expert help, completing applications correctly, medical and GP cards, the long-term illness scheme, disabled person’s parking cards, housing adaptation grants, cross-border surgery, and digitisation of application forms.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Tara Regan meets occupational therapist Dr Yvonne Codd and Aoife McCoy who lives with rheumatoid arthritis and is a busy mum to her young son. Yvonne and Aoife discuss strategies for parenting with arthritis, planning, delegation of parenting tasks, asking for help and the importance of surrounding ourselves with family and friends that can be relied on in times of need. They also talk about having confidence in your own self-management skills and giving yourself permission to say no when you need to.  http://www.arthritisireland.ie/

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Professor Helen French where they explore the important role of exercise in treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis.  They also discuss the risk factors for developing osteoarthritis and the importance of maintaining mobility and a healthy weight to reduce risk. They explore the types of exercise suitable for those living with osteoarthritis, particularly if they experience pain and fatigue, and have not engaged in exercise or physical activity for some time.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Peter Boyd meets Dr Jennifer Wilson O’Raghallaigh to discuss the difficulties of living with an invisible condition and how to effectively communicate needs and challenges to those around us.  They discuss the complexities that invisible illnesses can bring, especially when people appear to ‘look fine’.  They also explore how to recognise the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, when and where to seek help, and the importance of self-management.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Gráinne O’Leary meets Professor Gaye Cunnane where they discuss her journey of documenting the progress of rheumatology in Ireland. Gaye also discusses her inspiration and love for rheumatology, the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and how developments in rheumatology have made significant changes to outcomes for those living with arthritis. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this episode of Inflammation Nation, Peter Boyd meets dietitian and Communications Manager at the INDI, Louise Reynolds. They discuss the importance of getting trustworthy, evidence-based advice from a registered dietitian. They also examine how to incorporate the Mediterranean diet into everyday life, the pitfalls of excluding food groups from your diet and tips and tricks for planning and cooking when experiencing a flare, pain or fatigue. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Jane Brownlee, Senior Occupational Therapist at Naas General Hospital and Anna O’Laoghaire, Arthritis Ireland Helpline Volunteer Peter Boyd meets Arthritis Ireland Helpline volunteer Anna O’Laoghaire and Senior Occupational Therapist Jane Brownlee to discuss ways in which those with a chronic condition can navigate pain and fatigue while managing everyday tasks and the expectations of family, friends and colleagues. Anna also discusses her phone theory, a practical insight into the day-to-day challenges of managing unpredictable energy levels when dealing with a chronic condition. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Professor Rose Anne Kenny, REGIS Professor and award-winning physician and researcher who has been head of the Department of Gerontology at Trinity College Dublin since 2006. She is the founding principal investigator of the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA).  Professor Rose Anne Kenny meets Gráinne O’Leary in this episode, dispelling the myth that genetics play the strongest role in ageing. Professor Kenny discusses how to mitigate the negative consequences of ageing, the importance of social engagement, laughing and having colour both on your plate and in your life. The interview also includes advice on how to maintain physical health while ageing with arthritis, including how to improve balance and avoid falls as we get older.  For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Dr. Mary Canavan, Assistant Professor of Immunology in the School of Medicine & School of Biochemistry and Immunology in Trinity College Dublin and Dr. Viviana Marzaioli, Research Assistant Professor in the Molecular Rheumatology Group at in the School of Medicine at Trinity College Dublin.  In this episode, Dr. Mary Canavan and Dr. Viviana Marzaioli lift the lid on the mystery surrounding those working as researchers, what inspired their interest in research and the paths that they took to get where they are today. They also discuss their ambitions to make a positive impact on those who have arthritis, the collaborative nature of their work and how the enthusiasm and passion of their colleagues makes their work enjoyable and rewarding.  For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Professor Douglas Veale, Consultant Rheumatologist at St. Vincent’s University Hospital.  and Louise Moore is an Advanced Nurse Practitioner based at the Rheumatic Musculoskeletal Disease Unit at Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services Harold’s Cross.  In this episode, Gráinne O’Leary meets Professor Douglas Veale and advanced nurse practitioner, Louise Moore to discuss the challenges and considerations that would-be parents need to consider when planning a pregnancy. The interview also includes advice regarding fertility, the role of medication, how to maintain health before, during and after pregnancy and remission during pregnancy. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Professor Geraldine McCarthy, Consultant Rheumatologist at the Mater Hospital.   In this episode, Professor Geraldine McCarthy explains to Peter Boyd what happens with a gout attack, why this happens and how gout is treated. The stigma associated with gout, and the misconception that eating and drinking too much can cause gout, means that some people are embarrassed to seek treatment. Professor McCarthy explains that gout is also linked to higher mortality, associated with heart attacks and stroke and that it should be taken seriously and managed carefully. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Professor Frank Barry, Professor of Cellular Therapy and National University of Ireland Galway and a principal investigator at the Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI).   In this episode, Gráinne O’Leary meets Professor Frank Barry, to discuss a promising ongoing cell therapy trial for osteoarthritis. Professor Barry talks about his motivation for the trial which is driven by the significant impact on the quality of life of osteoarthritis patients and the lack of disease modifying treatments. He discusses how cell therapy has the potential to treat patients eliciting a repair response, the different stages of the trial and the challenge of ensuring that the potential treatment is affordable and accessible to patients.   For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In the final episode of the current series of Inflammation Nation, award-winning novelist, Sinéad Moriarty, and IT contractor, Sean Lacey, speak with Brian Lynch about being newly diagnosed with arthritis. Sinéad was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2015 and shared her experience in the book, My RA Story. Sean was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis in early 2020 during the first phase of the Covid pandemic. The conversation explores issues like coming to terms with the diagnosis; its impact on work, relationships; managing flares; and what they have found to helped in the journey. Also in this episode, Peter Boyd speaks with paediatric rheumatologist, Dr Emma MacDermott, about how arthritis affects children and young people; highlighting that it is not just an 'old person's disease'. Niamh Hogan travelled to Portlaoise to gauge the views of people there on the issue. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Áine O Hara is an award-winning performance artist, theatre maker and facilitator who is based between Dublin and Mayo. Áine creates exciting and vulnerable work for and about people who are often left out of traditional art and theatre spaces. In this episode she discusses living with fibromyalgia and how she naturally gravitated towards art to help work through her diagnosis and connect with similar people. To find out more about Áine's work you can head to her website www.aineohara.com. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Prof Luke O'Neill is a world-renowned immunologist, science communicator par excellence, author and professor of biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin. In this episode he talks to Gráinne O'Leary about his own beginnings in immunology, what we've learned from the pandemic and some of the exciting developments taking place in arthritis and autoimmune disease research. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this episode, Prof Kate Lorig talks to Gráinne O’Leary about self-management for people living with arthritis and other chronic conditions. Arthritis Ireland has delivered the Living Well with Arthritis programme since 2006, which has positively impacted thousands of people who have completed the course. Prof Lorig served as director of the Stanford Patient Education Research Center and professor of medicine in the Stanford University School of Medicine. She developed the chronic disease self-management programme. Also in this episode, Peter Boyd explores some myths around the disease of kings and high-living - gout. He talks to consultant rheumatologist, Prof. Geraldine McCarthy, while Niamh Hogan spoke to the people of west Dublin to get their views on the subject. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this episode, Iris Zink talks to Brian Lynch about the impact that arthritis can have on people’s relationships and sexual health. Iris Zink is a rheumatology nurse practitioner in Michigan and is the co-author of ‘Sex-Interrupted: Igniting intimacy while living with illness or disability’.  Also in this episode, Peter Boyd explores the relationship between foods, supplements and arthritis. He talks to dietitian and nutritionist Richelle Flanagan to get the expert opinion, while Niamh Hogan spoke to the people of Meath to get their views on the subject. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this episode, Prof Gerry Wilson and Prof Ursula Fearon talk to Gráinne O’Leary about some of the developments taking place in rheumatology research in Ireland and internationally. Prof Wilson and Prof Fearon hold the Arthritis Ireland chairs in rheumatology at UCD and TCD, respectively. They discuss what this investment has meant for arthritis research and for people living with arthritis, including ground-breaking research into Down-syndrome associated arthritis. They also explore the importance of public and patient involvement (PPI) in research, developments in personalised medication, and risk factors for the development of arthritis. Also in this episode, Peter Boyd explores if cracking your knuckles can cause or is bad for your arthritis. He talks to physiotherapist Ciara Mooney, while Niamh Hogan spoke to the people of south Dublin to get their views on the subject. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this episode, Dr Yvonne Codd talks to Brian Lynch about work and arthritis. They explore challenges and opportunities experienced by people with arthritis in the workplace, what supports and resources are available, disclosing your condition to your employer, your rights as an employee, as well as what we’ve learned from the pandemic about working from home. Also in this episode, Andy Dunne talks to Peter Boyd about the role of exercise and physical activity in managing arthritis. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

In this first episode, Prof Oliver FitzGerald and Prof Stephen Pennington talk to Gráinne O’Leary about psoriatic arthritis, how it’s diagnosed, its symptoms and impact, and patients’ unmet needs. They also discuss Hippocrates, an international research project aiming to develop personalised treatment options for those affected by psoriatic arthritis. Also in this episode, Prof Doug Veale talks to Peter Boyd about how the weather affects arthritis. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie. Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.

Inflammation Nation is a podcast from Arthritis Ireland aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of arthritis and related conditions. For further information visit www.arthritisireland.ie Inflammation Nation is supported by Pfizer.