What is one potential effect of untreated diabetes?

One potential effect of untreated diabetes is severe dehydration from hyperglycemia. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, the kidneys attempt to remove the excess glucose through urine, leading to increased urination. This process can cause significant fluid loss, resulting in dehydration. The body tries to compensate for this fluid loss, often leading to increased thirst as it signals a need for more water. If not managed, severe dehydration can lead to serious complications, impacting overall health and potentially leading to conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, especially in type 1 diabetes.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of untreated diabetes. Improved energy levels and normal blood sugar regulation would not occur in the absence of treatment; rather, untreated diabetes typically results in fatigue and dysregulation of blood glucose levels. Increased appetite can occur as the body attempts to obtain more energy despite the inability to use glucose effectively, but it is not as directly detrimental as the severe dehydration associated with hyperglycemia. Understanding these effects highlights the importance of effective diabetes management to prevent serious health issues.