What is a common complication of untreated diabetes?

Untreated diabetes can lead to various serious complications, and it is crucial to understand how these conditions are interconnected. Diabetic neuropathy, which is nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood glucose levels, is a common complication directly linked to unmanaged diabetes. It can manifest as pain, tingling, or loss of sensation, particularly in the feet and hands.

Furthermore, diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular issues, including stroke and heart attacks. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves that control the heart, leading to these serious conditions. Over time, both microvascular (like neuropathy) and macrovascular (such as heart disease and stroke) complications can arise due to the sustained effects of elevated glucose levels on the body.

The presence of one complication can contribute to the development of others. For instance, the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, are often found in patients with diabetes. Therefore, untreated diabetes is indeed associated with a range of complications, making "all of the above" the most comprehensive and accurate choice. Understanding this multifactorial nature of diabetes complications helps underscore the importance of effective management and monitoring in diabetic patients to prevent such serious health issues.