Latent Autoimmune Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

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Focused Health Topics
Contributed byAlexander Enabnit+2 moreJun 24, 2023

Introduction: 

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. There are different types of diabetes, and one of them is Latent Autoimmune Diabetes (LADA). LADA is a slow-developing form of diabetes that shares characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for LADA.

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes (LADA) is a type of diabetes that shares characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. LADA is also known as Type 1.5 diabetes because it is a slow-developing form of autoimmune diabetes that appears in adults. LADA is caused by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin, leading to insulin deficiency.

Causes:

The exact cause of LADA is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The following factors can increase the risk of developing LADA:

  • Family history of autoimmune diseases
  • Certain genetic mutations
  • Exposure to viral infections
  • Environmental factors such as smoking or exposure to toxins

Symptoms:

The symptoms of LADA can be similar to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and may include the following:

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds or infections
  • Weight loss or gain
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
  • High blood sugar levels

Treatment:

The treatment of LADA involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and insulin therapy. The following are some treatment options for LADA:

  • Lifestyle modifications: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can help manage blood sugar levels in people with LADA.
  • Oral medications: Some oral medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, such as metformin, may be effective in managing blood sugar levels in people with LADA.
  • Insulin therapy: People with LADA may eventually require insulin therapy to manage their blood sugar levels. Insulin therapy may involve multiple daily injections or the use of an insulin pump.
  • Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM): CGM devices can be helpful in monitoring blood sugar levels and adjusting insulin therapy accordingly.

Conclusion: 

 LADA is a slow-developing form of autoimmune diabetes that shares characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The exact cause of LADA is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The symptoms of LADA can be similar to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and the treatment involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and insulin therapy. It is essential to manage blood sugar levels in people with LADA to prevent complications and improve their overall health.

Hashtags: #latentautoimmunedabetes #LADA #diabetes #Type1diabetes #Type2diabetes #insulintherapy #healthylifestyle.

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On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Alexander Enabnit picture
Author

Alexander Enabnit

Senior Editorial Staff
Alexandra Warren picture
Author

Alexandra Warren

Senior Editorial Staff

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