I was diagnosed in 2004 after hand surgery for what the doctor thought was a cyst. Turned out to be an RA inflammation. Symptoms had been kind of on and off during 2004 to 2008 while the doc had me try a few different treatments and drugs, then we settles on Plaquenil. Then I essentially went in remission in 2008 while taking Plaquinel. My doc said it had fewer side effects than the other drugs out there so she was pleased I responded so well to it. I have to see an eye doctor every 6 months to monitor my retinas. That is the big risk, that it can effect your eyes. The eye doc says at my age (55) and dose (200mg/day), the risk is very low. That was a good 10 year run. I do have say though, that at the beginning of this summer, I got a major flareup that is still going on. Doc (new one, since my old one retired) put me on Methotrexate 3 weeks ago along with a tapering dose of Prednisone, rather than up the Plaquenil dose. I find in the morning if I run my hands under warm water, and make myself stretch a bit, I can get some better movement in my hands and the overall pain reduces to a level where I can get on with things. I bought a bottle opening tool from pampered chef that helps with water bottles, and even has a can tab popper. That has been a help.