I have severe pain and swelling in my knees and some days can hardly walk what could this be?

I guess my first question is, why not get to the doctor and find out?  It certainly could be RA, and you probably suspect that because you came to this site!  It could also be osteoarthritis, which could also be treated.   Have you had any blood tests that would confirm this?  PLEASE DON'T DELAY in going to your doctor!  It can take 2-3 months to get into see a rheumatologist, and depending on insurance you may or may not need a referral.  But if it is RA, more damage can occur while you are waiting and thinking about it.  In the meantime your doctor COULD be doing some of the tests to start to diagnose it, and giving you something to help until a specialist (rheumy, if needed) can xero in on the best treatment options.

    Again, you need to go to a medical professional, all we can do here is share our experience and our best guess.  If you are unable to afford a doctor, there may be an agreement you can work out with a local doctor, or you can check if your state has a plan available for individuals without insurance, or try a free community clinic, if there is such a thing in your area.    If it is RA, you will need regular appointments with a rheumatologist, it's not a one-shot deal.  If it's osteo, you may be able to get injections of Syn-visc or something like that (I've heard there's a better one now).  If it's really bad (and it sure sounds like it), you may need to think about something like a knee replacement, or something less like arthroscopy (cleaning up the joint, minimally invasive.

   I'm feeling for you Tamara - please get yourself some help!