Hi, In A Very Recent Test, My RA Count Was

hi, in a very recent test, my RA count was seen as 36 as against a max. of 14. the test was suggested by an ortho. when I showed my defomed fingers , the little and the second fingers on my left hand and a possible attack on my forefinger on the right. the consultation was necessitated by pain on the right hand finger. the deformation on the left hand was more than one year old. the rheumatologist whom i consulted opined that even though the RA count was on the higher side, that could be due to my age,which is 76 now, and also my occupation. GLUCOSAMINE U.S.P 1500mg one per day for a few months was the prescription. there are lumps below the skin on the fingers in question and it was made clear to me that nothing could be done to reverse the deformity. I am not on any medication and my only complaint is dry throat and less sleep, about 5 to six hours on an average. I am not diabetic and not a BP victim. Used to smoke but gave up for seven years now. I am confused . Pl. advise me on the next step.