How do doctors distinguish between Types 1 and 2 diabetes in adults?
It can be hard to decide if one is a Type 1 (LADA) or Type 2 diabetic. Family history is very important as Type 2 diabetes runs strongly in families. Also the build of the patient is important. In the thinner patient, the possibility of LADA is more likely. One’s response to medication is also an indicator. In LADA the usual medicines that work in Type 2 diabetes do not work, although there can be some effect from oral medicines that work by stimulating insulin secretion while the islet cells are still making some insulin. Finally, there is an antibody blood test (GAD) that can be done to check for LADA, although it is only helpful if it is positive as the patient can still have LADA with a negative test. What is the treatment for LADA? Once the diagnosis is made, insulin is the appropriate treatment; although early on there may be some response with drugs that stimulate insulin secretion. What lifestyle changes are necessary for LADA? Any patient diagnosed with diabetes, regardless of
