| kimbo,
T1.5 is the so called "slow onset type1". The basic difference between t1/t1.5 and t2 is that the former is essentially the result of an autoimune attack on the beta cells of the pancreas, while the latter is metabolic disorder that results in insulin not doing it's job properly. Oral medications help fix t2, but have no effect on the t1 autoimune attack.
As far as testing for ketones is concerned, this is something diabetics need to do if they are having very high blood sugars, for whatever reason. I hardly ever test my ketones because my blood sugars are under control. So you won't have to do this forever!
If you haven't had an antibody test done, that would be the the next logical step. It should show if your immune system is producing antibodies that are attacking your pancreas. If the test is positive, you are t1/t1.5. You should also have a c-peptide test done. It will show if you are insulin-resistant, which is typical of t2.
The results of these tests will enable your doctor to make a definite diagnosis. Waiting to see how the meds work for you is not ideal, becase they will probably produce a short term improvement regardless of whether you are t1/t1.5 or t2. And if you are t1 or t1.5, the sooner you start using insulin the better. In the early stages, using small amounts of insulin prolongs the life of beta cells.
Cheers,
Mark  | 
