When to Take LADA Diabetes Blood Test? - A Quick Checklist for Symptoms

• Written by Bhawika Khushlani

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Is your diabetes treatment failing to control stubbornly high blood sugar levels? Perhaps the real culprit hasn’t been identified yet, which is LADA 1.5 diabetes!

Even if you are adhering to your medication and following a proper diet with regular exercise, then it might be time to consider the LADA diabetes blood test, also called the GAD Antibodies test. This test can guide you to the right treatment decisions, ensure timely interventions, and prevent long-term, health-threatening complications.

Let’s dive into a detailed guide where we will learn about latent autoimmune diabetes, its causes, symptoms, age of onset, treatment, management tips, and risk factors.

What is the LADA Diabetes Definition?- An Overview

LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults) is a condition where patients experience symptoms of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Also known as Type 1.5 diabetes, it was first diagnosed in the early 1990s and often misdiagnosed as Type 2 diabetes. LADA occurs when antibodies attack and reduce insulin production. It can also be genetically similar to Type 1 diabetes. Between 4% and 12% of LADA-affected people are misdiagnosed as having Type 2 diabetes.

Here is a quick table to identify the right diabetes Type and prevent any long-term complications:

What are The Main Causes of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults?

Here are some common causes of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults:

Genetic Predisposition

Specific genes within the HLA region and are involved in the immune system can increase the risk of developing LADA. These genes are also implicated in Type 1 diabetes.

Autoimmune Attack

The primary cause of LADA is when the immune system mistakenly starts destroying beta cells in the pancreas, leading to reduced production of insulin.

Age of Onset

Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, whereas the age of onset for LADA diabetes is typically over 30 years.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is frequently a common symptom of Type 2 diabetes, which can contribute to LADA development. Individuals with a higher degree of insulin resistance are at a risk of developing it.

Environmental Factors

Some environmental factors, such as viral infection, can also contribute to the development of LADA Type 1 diabetes.

Pancreatic Function

With age, some individuals experience a decline in their pancreas's ability to produce the required insulin, which can also be a big trigger of LADA 1.5 diabetes.

What are The Symptoms of LADA for Early Detection?

How can you identify the early signs of LADA? While LADA can present with symptoms of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, most patients primarily experience Type 1 symptoms. Keep an eye on the following common signs:

• Increased thirst (polydipsia)
• Frequent Urge of Urination (polyuria)
• Increased appetite with unexplained weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue and weakness
• Slow-healing sores
• Frequent infections

Tip: Many of these symptoms can be confused with Type 2 diabetes, which could be a big challenge in its proper treatment. Also, early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications and can even be treated with some lifestyle changes and oral medications.

LADA Diabetes Blood Test: Diagnosis Process

Several factors are evaluated to complete the LADA blood test diagnosis process, including medical history, physical examination, and specific blood tests. Some of the most common LADA type 1.5 diabetes diagnosis tests are as follows:

GAD Autoantibody Tests

Autoantibody tests such as GAD and IA-2, help evaluate antibody production in the immune system. These antibodies are crucial for insulin production in the pancreas.

Blood Sugar Test

These tests include fasting, random, and oral blood glucose tests, which help determine blood glucose levels in the body.

C-Peptide Test

The C-peptide test measures insulin production by examining C-peptide levels.

Glycated Haemoglobin (A1C) Test

Glycated Haemoglobin is an effective LADA diabetes blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. This test is performed to detect the presence of diabetes.

How to Manage LADA 1.5 Diabetes

Managing Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) management is quite challenging. However, several strategies can be followed to prevent long-term risks and effectively manage blood sugar levels:

Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

The first and foremost step in managing LADA diabetes is regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. It will help measure the effectiveness of medication and dietary changes. For monitoring, you can use a glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

Dietary Changes

Significant results can be achieved through dietary changes. Follow a balanced diet rich in fibre, healthy fats, and protein, as well as less carbohydrate intake. You can also consult a certified dietitian for assistance.

Physical Activity

Physical activity can enhance your body's insulin sensitivity. However, it is essential to consult with your doctor regarding the type and intensity of exercise.

Medication Management

Regularly monitor medication effectiveness. Insulin therapy and other medication plans may be required. For this, maintain regular communication with your healthcare provider and utilise blood sugar tracking tools.

Pro tip: Most LADA patients require insulin therapy, which can vary according to your body’s requirements.

Monitoring of Complications

It is crucial to monitor for all diabetes-related complications, such as nerve, eye, or kidney damage. Therefore, undergoing routine check-ups for early diagnosis and treatment serves as an effective preventative measure.

Carry Essentials and Stay Hydrated

It is advisable to carry quick-acting carbohydrates in case the blood sugar level falls. Additionally, staying hydrated will help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

What are The Common Treatments of LADA?

Treatment of LADA Type 1.5 diabetes can vary according to blood sugar level and insulin production in the body. In the early stages, some lifestyle, diet, and oral medication can help you fight high blood sugar levels. However, if the situation gets worse, then you may take an insulin injection, as your pancreas might lose its ability to produce insulin completely. At every stage, regular evaluation of your blood sugar level is a must.

Pro Tip: If the situation gets worse and starts damaging the kidneys, you may require dialysis treatment to remove excess water and toxins from the blood. Here, a Diabetes Health Insurance by Care Health Insurance provide comprehensive day care coverage for dialysis treatment. It can offer you huge financial assistance at a time of crisis.

LADA Diabetes: Is It Rare or Common?

LADA diabetes is not that rare; it's just that many people are still not aware of the name. According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, there are more than 10% of cases where people having Type 2 diabetes end up diagnosed as LADA.

What are The Risk Factors & Complications of LADA?

Risk factors

Many factors can increase the risk of LADA 1.5 diabetes. Consider the following:

1. Being overweight and obesity are among the most common risk factors.
2. Physical inactivity also increases the risk of LADA.
3. Higher alcohol, smoking, and coffee consumption can cause a type 1.5 diabetes diagnosis.
4. A family medical history of diabetes is also a reason for LADA diabetes, as it contains a strong genetic component.

Complications:

LADA diabetes can lead to Diabetes-related ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a life-threatening complication. If this happens, then your liver and kidneys will be at great risk of being damaged. Therefore, early detection and the right treatment play a vital role in the case of LADA diabetes.

>> Also Read: Diabetes Management: Your Ultimate Guide

What to Eat and Avoid in LADA?

Your diet management in the case of LADA can do wonders for your overall health, including controlling blood sugar levels. Here are some food tips to focus on:

Food to Eat

• Brown rice
• Fatty fish like Salmon
• Poultry, beans, lentils and tofu
• Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil
• Source of food for Vitamin C and E
• Foods with Vitamin D

Food to Avoid

• Sodas, juice and other sugary drinks
• Processed foods, pastries, and unhealthy fats
• Red meat and fried food
• White bread, white rice and refined grains

Final Thoughts

If Type 2 diabetes is not responding to medications and diet changes, it's time to call LADA diabetes blood test and see if there is any misdiagnosis. There can be symptoms of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in LADA. However, most patients experience only Type 2 symptoms. Keep an eye on these common symptoms to avoid any huge health complications.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.