What is a common result of diabetes?

Hyperglycemia is a common result of diabetes, which occurs when there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. In individuals with diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to the insulin that is available. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into the cells for energy or storage. When insulin action is impaired, glucose remains in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia.

Hyperglycemia can manifest in various ways, including increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Over time, if blood sugar levels remain high, it can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve deterioration, and eye problems.

In contrast, while hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can occur in diabetes, particularly from insulin or medication use, it is not a direct result of the disease itself but rather a consequence of treatment. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and weight loss can occur in some individuals with diabetes but are not as directly associated with the condition as hyperglycemia is. Weight loss, for example, may happen in uncontrolled type 1 diabetes due to the body breaking down fat for energy when glucose uptake is not functioning properly. However, this