some 1. 5 million people in the united states -- the vast majority of them young women between 18 and 45 -- have this often-puzzling autoimmune disease with a constellation of symptoms ranging from joint swelling and muscle pain to hair loss chest pain and rashes. there are medications that can help manage the symptoms of lupus. and lifestyle changes -- such as eating more balanced meals and getting regular exercise -- can help prevent flare-ups.
what is lupus?