What should you know about LADA type 1.5 diabetes?

LADA stands for latent autoimmune diabetes in adults. The immune system gradually damages insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Because this process can be slower than in childhood-onset Type 1 Diabetes, a person may first be treated as having another form of diabetes. Blood tests for diabetes-related antibodies and a test showing how much insulin the pancreas is making can help clarify the diagnosis.

Possible features include thirst, frequent urination, tiredness, blurred vision or unintended weight loss. Bedwetting can occur when high blood glucose causes excess urine, particularly in children, but it is not specific to LADA. These symptoms need assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Arrange a chronic disease review if diabetes has been diagnosed recently, glucose remains high despite tablets, or treatment needs keep changing. Ask whether antibody testing and a C-peptide test are appropriate. Keep a record of glucose readings, medicines, meals and symptoms. Do not stop diabetes medicine or start insulin without a clinician's plan.

A Diabetes Education Programme can help with glucose monitoring, meal planning, activity, sick-day arrangements and recognising low glucose. Diabetes Medication Management can review whether tablets, injectable treatment or insulin fit your current insulin production and daily routine.

Seek urgent medical help for vomiting, severe abdominal pain, deep or difficult breathing, marked drowsiness, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. These can signal dangerous metabolic imbalance. Treat suspected hypoglycaemia promptly according to your personal plan; confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness require emergency care. If you have diabetes and are acutely unwell, check glucose as advised and contact your care team.

Could my diabetes be autoimmune, and which tests would help confirm that? How will we monitor insulin production over time? What glucose targets, sick-day instructions and warning signs apply to me? When should insulin be considered?