# What You Need to Know About Type 1.5 Diabetes

**By Paula Gallagher** · 2024-09-04

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0319/0960/9603/files/What_You_Need_to_Know_About_Type_1.5_Diabetes_375x250_c7ed3ad5-c1a1-43a4-82a8-411c3285a089.png?v=1725380168)

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), often referred to as Type 1.5 diabetes, is a form of diabetes that shares characteristics with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which typically presents in childhood or adolescence, LADA emerges later in life. However, unlike Type 2 diabetes, LADA involves an autoimmune process that leads to the gradual destruction of insulin-producing beta cells.

## Causes of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

The exact cause of LADA is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. In LADA, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a gradual loss of insulin production. This autoimmune attack is similar to what occurs in Type 1 diabetes, but in LADA, it progresses more slowly.  
  
Some factors that may increase the risk of developing LADA include:

-   **Family History:** A family history of autoimmune diseases, including Type 1 diabetes, may increase the risk.
    
-   **Environmental Triggers:** Viral infections, toxins, or other environmental factors may trigger the autoimmune response.
    
-   **Age:** LADA typically develops in adults over the age of 30, though it can occur at any age.
    

### Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of LADA can be resemble those of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. These may include:

-   **Increased Thirst and Urination:** High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to excrete more water, leading to increased thirst and frequent urination.
    
-   **Unexplained Weight Loss:** Despite eating normally, individuals may lose weight due to the body's inability to use glucose for energy.
    
-   **Fatigue:** A lack of insulin results in a lack of energy, causing fatigue.
    
-   **Blurred Vision:** High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision.
    
-   **Slow Healing of Wounds:** High blood sugar can impair circulation and the immune system, slowing the healing process.
    

### Diagnosis of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

Diagnosing LADA can be challenging because its symptoms often resemble those of Type 2 diabetes, and it progresses more slowly than Type 1 diabetes. However, certain tests can help distinguish LADA from other forms of diabetes:

-   **Blood Glucose Tests:** High blood glucose levels can indicate diabetes, but further testing is needed to determine the type.
    
-   **C-Peptide Test:** This test measures the level of C-peptide, a byproduct of insulin production. Low levels of C-peptide may indicate reduced insulin production, which is common in LADA.
    
-   **Autoantibody Tests:** The presence of specific autoantibodies, such as GAD antibodies, is a key indicator of LADA. These autoantibodies attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
    
-   **HbA1c Test:** This test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. Elevated HbA1c levels indicate poor blood sugar control.
    

### Conventional Treatment Approaches

The treatment of LADA involves managing blood sugar levels and slowing the progression of beta cell destruction. Conventional treatment often includes:

-   **Insulin Therapy:** Since LADA is characterized by a gradual loss of insulin production, insulin therapy is often necessary. Early initiation of insulin therapy may help preserve remaining beta cell function.
    
-   **Oral Medications:** Initially, some people with LADA may respond to oral medications typically used in Type 2 diabetes, such as metformin. However, as the disease progresses, these medications often become less effective.
    
-   **Blood Sugar Monitoring:** Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to adjust treatment and prevent complications.

**Tags:** diabetes

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> Source: [Village Green Apothecary](myvillagegreen.com/blogs/post/what-you-need-to-know-about-type-1-5-diabetes)