Ask the Doctor: Question: My mom has rheumatoid arthritis, what is it? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is when the immune system – which protects our bodies from bacteria and viruses – begins attacking its own tissues, and with RA, it specifically attacks joints. The result is fluid in the joints that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. Many people confuse RA with osteoarthritis but they differ; RA is more common and immune based whereas osteo arthritis is due to wear and tear of a joint. What are the symptoms? The symptoms and course of rheumatoid arthritis vary from person to person. Morning stiffness…