Table of Contents
share
Living with diabetes can feel like navigating a complicated maze. For many adults, a diabetes diagnosis often falls into two well-known categories: type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
But what if the symptoms don't fit into either bucket? Input Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)often referred to as “type 1.5 diabetes” because of its mixed characteristics.
I was diagnosed with LADA in 2020 after 4 years of being misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Searching for answers can be frustrating, but there are some important things you need to know to identify LADA during diagnosis.
This blog describes the causes, symptoms, and management of LADA and provides insights to help both individuals and medical professionals better understand this unique condition.
What is latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)?
Definition and overview of LADA
LADA is an autoimmune form of diabetes that occurs in adults. Similar to type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
However, unlike typical type 1 diabetes (which is usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence), LADA develops gradually, often leading to misdiagnosis of early type 2 diabetes.
If you've been told you have type 2 diabetes, but oral medications aren't working well, LADA may be worth a try.
Differences between LADA, type 1 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes
There are distinct differences that distinguish LADA from other types of diabetes.
- Age of onset: LADA usually develops after the age of 30, while type 1 diabetes often develops at a younger age. But don't get me wrong. People with type 1 diabetes can safely eat at any age.
- progress: LADA progresses more slowly than type 1, with complete insulin dependence developing within months or years.
- Misdiagnosis: LADA is slow to progress, and is often initially misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its adult onset and initial responsiveness to oral medications.
Understanding these differences is critical for early diagnosis and targeted therapy.
Causes and risk factors for LADA
Like other autoimmune diseases, the causes of LADA are complex and multifactorial. Although research into the exact triggers is ongoing, current evidence reveals several major causes.
genetic predisposition
Certain genetic factors may increase your risk of developing LADA. Research shows that individuals with autoimmune genes that: HLA-DQ and HLA-DR lociare more likely to develop LADA.
Interestingly, these genetic markers overlap with other autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
environmental factors
Environmental factors such as viral infections, stress, and exposure to certain toxins are thought to play a role in triggering autoimmune responses.
Although the exact mechanisms are still unknown, these triggers may accelerate the gradual destruction of pancreatic beta cells.
Symptoms of subclinical autoimmune diabetes in adults
Common symptoms
The symptoms of LADA are very similar to those of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. These include:
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Unexplained weight loss
- fatigue
- blurred vision
Symptoms that distinguish LADA from other diabetic diseases
LADA is characterized by slow symptom progression. Initially, it does not require insulin and may respond to type 2 diabetes treatments such as metformin. However, over time, oral medications usually stop working because insulin production decreases.
If your symptoms worsen despite treatment, your doctor may consider testing for LADA.
Diagnosis of LADA
Diagnostic tests and criteria
To check LADA, healthcare providers use a combination of:
- blood sugar test: High blood sugar levels may indicate diabetes, but the type cannot be distinguished.
- autoantibody test: Tests such as GAD (glutamic acid decarboxylase), IAA, IA2, and other antibodies are important indicators of autoimmune diabetes.
- C-peptide level: Low levels of C-peptide (a marker of insulin production) indicate insulin deficiency, which is common in LADA. C-peptide can decrease and change over time.
The importance of early diagnosis
Misdiagnosis can delay appropriate treatment and lead to complications such as poor glycemic control and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Early diagnosis can help prevent or minimize these risks and lay the foundation for effective management.
Management and treatment strategies for LADA
Insulin therapy and its importance
Similar to type 1 diabetes, LADA patients eventually require insulin therapy. Beta cells gradually become depleted, so using insulin early may reduce stress on the remaining cells and keep them functioning longer.
Lifestyle changes and monitoring
Managing LADA is not just about insulin. Lifestyle modifications are equally important.
- diet: Focus on a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- exercise: Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity.
- blood sugar monitoring: Consistent tracking helps maintain optimal blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
A combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes can help individuals better manage LADA challenges.
Living with subclinical autoimmune diabetes
Challenges faced by LADA patients
Living with LADA often comes with unique hurdles, including:
- delay in diagnosis: Many people experience frustration and confusion before arriving at the correct diagnosis.
- misunderstanding: Some patients feel their condition is poorly understood, as it lies between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- Adjustment of treatment: Transitioning from oral medications to insulin can be accompanied by emotional changes.
Support and resources available
Fortunately, there is a growing community for people living with LADA. Forums, diabetes support groups, and resources Organizations such as the American Diabetes Association (ADA) can provide valuable support.
Connecting with others who share your experience will make the transition smoother.
Future direction of LADA research
LADA research is rapidly evolving, with scientists investigating everything from: Prevents beta cell destruction Pinpoint specific environmental triggers.
Researchers are also investigating how personalized medicine can improve outcomes for LADA patients.
One area that is gaining attention is the development of immunotherapies, which aim to target the immune system and slow disease progression. These advances could soon revolutionize how autoimmune diabetes is managed.
Learn how to manage your diabetes diagnosis today
Although a diagnosis of LADA may feel overwhelming, it's important to remember that advances in research, treatments, and support networks have made it entirely possible to live a full and healthy life. is.
my coaching and support community, glucose guideis a great place to find more information about LADA and how to manage it.
If you're having trouble finding answers about your diabetes symptoms or feel like your current management plan isn't working, talk to your health care provider about testing for LADA. It's never too early to acquire the knowledge and tools you need to succeed.
Want to connect with others or learn more about the latest LADA research? Blogs for organizations like the ADA and the diabetes community are a great place to start.
