Hi, Buttercup,   Those are exactly the questions you need to ask your RD.  I am so "old" and forgetful these days, that I write my questions down, or I would forget half of them!    There are no cut and dried answers, because RA is not a predictable disease. It affects everyone differently.  There are some people who do go into "medical remission". They stay on meds, but are able to lead a fairly normal life somewhat akin to what they led before their diagnoses.   The sooner RA is caught and treated, the better your chances of medical remission are, or so I have read.  I am not a doctor or a nurse, but I do read a lot, and this has been my experience with fellow RAers who have shared their stories.   I am sero-negative, and it took me many years to get a diagnosis. I take Humira, MTX, Celebrex, Prednisone, and a host of other medications.  This enables me to still work, although I miss days when I am flaring.  It enables me to do a few things that are very important to me.  Without these meds I would be home every day, barely able to move.  So...for me, my meds are working well.  The in no way enable me to function at a high level, as I did before, but I have a new "normal".  I still find great joy in life, and figure out ways to get things done.   I set my priorities, and stick to them...for the most part! LOL  If I did not "ration" my energy, I would not be able to enjoy life.  At my house, the dusting is not as important as an afternoon spent with my husband, for instance.  If I only have energy for one, I choose my husband.    I would love to post some links for you, but the site is giving me trouble tonight.  I may try later.   Hang in there Buttercup.  Ask your questions, and go from there.  If your RD is a good doc, he will help you through this period of wondering what to expect.   Blessings, V