I have RA, was diagnosed 2-1/2 years ago, but have had it for about 4 years. My feet started hurting, and then I started feeling it in my ankles and knees. Right about when I was first diagnosed I got hit with the fatigue!! Crushing!! I was so miserable, I ended up in the Rheumatologist's office crying because I felt so horrible and I couldn't do anything. Since then the meds do help a lot, although I still do have some pain flareups. Have to remember to get extra rest, otherwise you'll be knocked off your feet! Right now I am going through a flareup, and it's really uncomfortable.
The difference you can really tell between RA and regular arthritis is that with RA, it hurts in the same place on both sides of your body...both feet, both ankles, both hands, both shoulders, etc. It's not joint wear, it's your immune system trying to eat up your own body...literally. So, good luck...get a good rheumy (rheumatologist), and don't give up. You'll eventually get a good med that works for you.