What are the potential complications of untreated hyperglycemia?

Untreated hyperglycemia can lead to a range of serious complications primarily involving damage to various organs and systems in the body due to prolonged high blood glucose levels. Neuropathy refers to nerve damage that can cause pain, tingling, or loss of sensation, typically in the extremities. Retinopathy involves damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision problems or blindness. Nephropathy is related to kidney damage, which can impair the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood, potentially leading to kidney disease or failure. Additionally, individuals with chronic hyperglycemia have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to the damaging effects of excess glucose on blood vessels and the atherosclerotic process, causing heart attacks and strokes.

The other options do not accurately reflect the complications associated with untreated hyperglycemia. Increased muscle mass and energy suggest a positive effect rather than a complication, while diarrhea and vomiting, as well as shortness of breath and fatigue, are not direct results of untreated hyperglycemia but could arise from various other conditions or specific diabetic crises.