Type 1.5 Diabetes: A Complete Guide

Dr.Prabhat Sinha, 3 mins read

Diabetes is primarily categorised into Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. However, there is one more type which is less common, i.e., Type 1.5 diabetes. Also, known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), it shares characteristics with both primary types which makes it even more confusing to recognise.

To help you out, here we have brought everything for you related to Type 1.5 diabetes, right from its symptoms to diagnosis, management and treatment.
What is Type 1.5 Diabetes?
Type 1.5 diabetes is a type of diabetes that primarily affects adults, typically over the age of 30. It usually starts in adulthood and then gradually worsens over time.

Similar to Type 1 diabetes, Type 1.5 diabetes happens when the pancreas stops making adequate insulin. It happens when an autoimmune disease progression damages the cells in the pancreas. However, unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 1.5 diabetes happens slowly, thus not mandating the need for insulin right away.

As Type 1.5 diabetes develops more slowly than Type 1 diabetes, it may initially resemble Type 2 diabetes. If you are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes but have lost weight without effort, there might be a chance you have Type 1.5 diabetes.
Key Features:
Autoimmune nature: Type 1.5 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that attacks insulin-producing cells.
Age of onset: Symptoms of Type 1.5 diabetes usually develop in adults, often misidentified as Type 2 diabetes initially.
Insulin dependence: Though Type 1.5 diabetes worsens at less speed than Type 1 diabetes, patients with Type 1.5 diabetes may eventually require insulin therapy.

Symptoms
Type 1.5 diabetes symptoms are usually subtle and may develop over months or years. Common symptoms include:

Increased thirst and frequent urination
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Unexplained weight loss

However, as the symptoms develop gradually, many people may not recognize these symptoms as indicative of diabetes.
Diagnosis
Due to sharing some similarities with Type 2 diabetes, diagnosing Type 1.5 diabetes is a little challenging. Doctors usually perform a series of tests for diagnosis and a complete picture of the disease.

Blood glucose test after fasting
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) before and after consuming a sugary drink
Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test to measure average blood glucose level over the past two to three months
Autoantibody testing

A combination of these tests can help your doctor differentiate type 1.5 from other types of diabetes.
Management and treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Type 1.5 diabetes. However, effective management strategies can help keep your blood sugar level at normal range. Treatment of Type 1.5 diabetes typically involves:

Insulin therapy for the management of blood sugar levels in the body
Prescribed oral medications
A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, lean proteins, and healthy fats. You can contact our dietitian to get a personalised meal plan.
Blood sugar monitoring regularly and taking prompt actions accordingly
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Regular exercise can promote your overall health and help you manage Type 1.5 diabetes
Living with Type 1.5 diabetes
Living with Type 1.5 diabetes requires you to keep updated about self-management. Here are some tips to help you out:

First of all, it’s very important to understand your disease. And keep an eye on its latest research and treatment options.
Join support groups for emotional support and practical advice.
Manage stress by regularly practising yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises.
Monitor your blood sugar level and overall health regularly and contact your doctor whenever needed.

At Aakash Healthcare, we have one of the best diabetes specialists in Delhi who have years of experience in managing Type 1, Type 1.5 and Type 2 diabetes. If you are diagnosed with any of these conditions or have any related symptoms, you can contact our diabetes experts at Aakash Healthcare, Dwarka, Delhi.