According to a recent study done by the Lupus Foundation of America, specialists discovered that over 1.5 million Americans have lupus, and even more surprising, 9 out of 10 women suffer from this autoimmune disease.

Although there is still a lot more research that needs to be done to be able to predict the outcome of the disease more effectively, early diagnostic and prevention methods are available, and believed to keep from spreading to your other vital organs.

Learn what the symptoms of lupus look like, and what to if you notice any...

Recognizing lupus.

Although there is a genetic component to lupus, its is not a disease that's passed down hereditarily, and with mostly internal symptoms, it often goes unnoticed. However, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms you might not want to ignore them.

Common symptoms of lupus include severe drowsiness, high fever, achy muscles and joints, sensitivity to sunlight, hair loss, mouth ulcers, and abnormal blood clotting.

Lupus is commonly linked, and often confused with diseases including fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

It usually occurs in an already weakened immune system, so if you've recently experienced an autoimmune disorder, or have any that run in your family, you should be extra aware of the possible dangers related to lupus.

Available treatments.

There are two immuno-suppressants on the market today that provide a quick fix for flare ups related to lupus, and when paired with an antimalaria drug can be used as an alternative to chemotherapy.

There are a few drawbacks of these medications as well, including a few negative side effects. People have reported gaining weight, along with mood swings, and other less than desirable symptoms.

However, there are a lot of drugs for the treatment of lupus in the pipeline, but they are only available in clinical trial.

If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, signing up for one is easy, and could have possible life changing effects. People are often times scared of these trials due to the fact that the drugs are still considered experimental, but by the human research stage it has already gone through thorough safety testing.

Additionally, participants are allowed to ask all the questions they want, and are able to withdraw from the trial any time you desire.