What is an acute complication of diabetes that may occur if glucose levels are not managed effectively?

Hypoglycemia is an acute complication of diabetes characterized by abnormally low blood glucose levels, which can occur if diabetes is not managed effectively. This condition can result from several factors, such as taking too much insulin, missing meals, or engaging in excessive physical activity without adequate carbohydrate intake.

When blood sugar levels drop significantly, the body doesn’t have enough glucose to fuel its essential functions, leading to symptoms like sweating, shakiness, confusion, irritability, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. Prompt recognition and treatment of hypoglycemia are crucial to prevent more severe outcomes.

In contrast, other conditions listed, such as neuropathy, kidney failure, and retinopathy, are long-term complications associated with poorly managed diabetes over a prolonged period. These complications develop gradually as a result of the chronic effects of elevated glucose levels on various organs and systems in the body.