Anti Gad 65 Antibodies

The Anti GAD 65 Antibodies test is used to detect the presence of Type 1 diabetes in your system. It does so by gauging the level of GAD antibodies in your bloodstream.

GAD antibodies are diabetes-associated antibodies that are tasked with destroying insulin-producing pancreatic cells. As the level of GAD increases, your blood insulin levels will eventually decrease, causing diabetes.

The following symptoms generally mark the onset of this ailment:

• Weakness
• Blurry vision
• Irritability 
• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Extended time for cuts and sores to heal 
• Excessive hunger and thirst 
• Lack of energy
• Bedwetting in children
• Frequent mood changes

When the immune system malfunctions, it will start attacking your healthy cells. In this case, they will attack the pancreatic beta cells and bring down insulin levels. If you experience any of the above symptoms repeatedly, you need to get the Anti GAD 65 Antibodies Test done immediately.

If the Anti GAD 65 Antibodies Test results turn out positive, you will need to take precautions. Here are some of the pointers to help you do just that:

• Manage your stress levels at all times 
• Work with your diabetes care team efficiently and follow your medication routine religiously 
• Make immediate changes to your lifestyle and diet
• Get support 
• Monitor your blood sugar levels and take good care of yourself
• Keep updated on all the new findings surrounding type 1 diabetes

Starting treatment and taking precautions acquires utmost importance post-diagnosis. If left untreated, Type 1 diabetes may put you at risk of life-threatening complications, including:

• Kidney damage
• Nerve issues
• Vision problems 
• Cardiovascular disease

Furthermore, the GAD enzyme assists your body in producing a neurotransmitter known as Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). This neurotransmitter is also an amino acid that limits the amount of communication to and from your nerves.

Hence, diabetes isn't the only ailment the Anti GAD 65 Antibodies Test can detect. Here is a small list of other ailments the Anti GAD 65 Antibodies Test can pick up on:

• Stiff person syndrome: This neurological condition entails muscle spasms and stiff muscles.
• Autoimmune diseases: Includes diseases like Thyroid disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, etc. 
• Cerebellar Ataxia: This disease entails sudden uncoordinated muscle movement.

Lastly, Apollo’s Anti GAD Antibodies test cost is quite reasonable, and you will receive the results within five days. The test requires no special preparation either. However, before the Anti GAD Antibodies test, you will need to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking since some of them can affect the test results. 
 

Frequently asked questions

Are any risks or complications associated with the above Anti GAD 65 Antibodies Test?

No, there are no major risks or complications associated with the above test. The test uses a a small blood sample that is drawn from your arm with the help of a needle. Hence, the most  that can happen is some light scarring or bleeding at the point of contact with the needle.

Where is GAD found?

GAD, or Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD), acts as a rate-limiting agent that catalyses the conversion of glutamate to GABA. This GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter of the Central Nervous System (CNS). Hence, the enzyme is found in all GABA neurons and the pancreatic islet beta cells.

What facts should you know if you have Type 1 diabetes?

Here are some quick facts you should know if you suffer from Type 1 diabetes: Age is usually a key factor for kids who have been diagnosed with diabetes. A cure hasn't been found yet; however, researchers are still looking for it.  Managing the above ailment demands a holistic approach Symptoms for the above condition can appear out of nowhere.

How do you know if your system has GAD antibodies?

Here are some signs that your body will exhibit if you have GAD antibodies in your bloodstream: Fatigue  Weight loss Blurry vision Excessive hunger and thirst  Irritability  Frequent urination A long time for cuts and sores to heal If you notice these symptoms, it is best to get a Anti GAD Antibodies test as soon as possible.

What are some of the most common triggers of Type 1 diabetes?

Some of the most common physical and psychological triggers for Type 1 diabetes are: Rapid growth and weight gain for children  Stress  Low physical activity (puberty) Frequent gastrointestinal and respiratory infections during childhood

What are the various risk factors of Type 1 diabetes?

The various risk factors for Type 1 diabetes are: Family history (risk of contracting disease increases if your family member has it) Geography  Presence of autoantibodies that damage your immune system cells Environmental factors (exposure to viral illnesses, etc.)