I guess they feel that your pain stems from adgitated nerves . So they think this will calm them down. Remember that doctors are always trying to gauge your level of pain. There are varing concentrations for all meds. Most have no long term effects so if you don't like it ,you can quite and try something else. Just be vocal in your wants and needs. If your worried tell them your conserns. Ra can be quite depressing and most need some help along the way.
It can be a life wrecker. You can still have a happy life.

If there is a cure for the fatigue, I want it. Can sit for any reason and want to take a nap, The only thing that saves me is staying on my feet. If I keep moving I am good. I do not give myself and excuse to take a break.

I usually do dishes after dinner to keep from snoring at the table. As for the pain, all I can offer is what works for me. Constant activity. The more I move, the better I feel. Even when I am dead tired.

Sorry you are having such a bad time with this. Prayers with you .

Hi Stacy,I hope you feel better! I found out that I am allergic to a number of things,besides ra and osteo,after mowing the grass ,I could hardly keep.my eyes open! I had them test me for allergies, found out I am allergic to trees,grass,pollen,honeybees,sesame seeds,household dust and wheat! Now that I avoid as much of that as I can and take an allergy medicine,i am feeling better! Don't know if that is what is wrong with you ,but possible! Hope you feel better,sending hugs and prayers!

You are not to feel foolish. Every trip I took to the rheumy was dreadful because I didn’t show redness nor swollen joints. Of course the blood work tells otherwise , in which the doctor knows this. I had much better relations with the nurse on the phone than I ever did at any visit. Unless your living this life with RA, the people around you just don’t get it. Even when they say they do. It’s a life changer for sure.! Thank goodness for this site. It makes me feel human again. Bless you all

I have swelling off and on in my feet and knees. But no redness. You are right about the fatigue. I can't sit for longer than 10 minutes reading and I'm snoring. Lol. Very attractive. I used to be so energetic..now it seems I have to force my enthusiasm.