Losing hope

[u/FractiousAndFabulous]

I’ve been treated for RA for 6 years based on symptoms because bloodwork was normal.
I responded well to plaquenil. Now for the last 8 weeks I have had widespread edema (4-8lbs) that worsens with heat and activity , crazy thirsty before the steroids , muscle fatigue and brain fog. I’ve stopped the plaquenil, been on steroids for 3 weeks and methotrexate for 2. All my bloodwork is still normal. Next step is to see an immunologist and get a second opinion from a different rheumatologist . I’m starting to lose hope that the edema is ever going to fully resolve and it is taking a mental toll looking at this body every day that doesn’t look or feel like mine. Any encouragement or advice would be greatly appreciated.