LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults)
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is the autoimmune disease usually occurs in normal weight people over age of 30 years. The mechanism for LADA is similar to the classic Type 1 diabetes. It will destroy the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas by the own body’s cells the result is a lack of insulin. According to estimates, up to 10% percent of adult diabetics have a LADA diabetes before. First usually show only mild symptoms of diabetes, so there is also the likelihood of confusion with the Type 2 diabetes. However, it lacks the typical co-morbidities such as hypertension and elevated blood lipids.
Diagnosis of LADA
In order to avoid a misdiagnosis, a blood test should be carried out on antibodies. The detection of antibodies against insulin-producing beta cells and an insulin deficiency are typical sign of the LADA form of diabetes. Usually GAD antibodies can be detected, which are antibodies to the enzyme Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase, an enzyme that is produced in the beta cells of the pancreas.
Causes of LADA
As a trigger for LADA form of diabetes various causes are discussed. Scientists suspect that a previously unknown event (disease, viruses, environmental toxins) lays the foundation. Unlike the classical type 1 diabetes, the process start from the irrevocable destruction of the insulin-producing cells.
The reasons for the LADA are not fully understood. But certainly seems that the genes have an important role in it. As in cause of type 1 diabetes particularly the HLA system (Human Leukocyte Antigen) system seems to be involved. It refers to a group of genes that are significantly involved in the regulation of the immune system. Apart from genetic causes but probably environmental influences are also involved , for example, infection with certain viruses, a major trigger for the LADA.
It is not yet known whether early insulin treatment can improve blood sugar control. The primary objective of the LADA therapy is to achieve normal blood glucose levels.
Symptoms of LADA
Symptoms of LADA are closely related with Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. That’s way some time it is treated as type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of LADA are following
- Nausea and vomiting
- Extreme weakness and fatigue
- Irritability and mood changes
- Frequent bladder and skin infections that don’t heal easily
- High levels of sugar in the blood when tested
- High levels of sugar in the urine when tested
- Dry, itchy skin
- Tingling or loss of feeling in the hands or feet
Treatments of LADA
LADA patient mostly need to focus on his diet to cure diabetes. Usually healthy low calories diet is recommended for LADA patients and also advice to increases physical activities. Doctors should advise diet and exercise according to state of disease. Early insulin therapy is also recommended to LADA patient but clear guidelines are not still available.
Prevention of LADA
- Usually avoid food with high sugar level
- Use healthy diet with low calories level
- Do exercise daily atleast for 30 mint
- Diagnose after every 2 0r 3 months