What complication can arise from prolonged high blood sugar levels in diabetics?

Ketoacidosis is a significant and serious complication that can arise from prolonged high blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with type 1 diabetes, though it can also occur in type 2 diabetes under certain circumstances. When blood sugar levels remain elevated for an extended period, the body becomes unable to utilize glucose for energy due to insufficient insulin. As a result, it begins to break down fat for fuel, which leads to the production of ketones. An excessive accumulation of ketones in the blood can cause diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition characterized by metabolic acidosis, elevated ketone levels, electrolyte imbalances, and can potentially result in severe health issues or even death if left untreated.

In contrast, while hypotension, respiratory distress, and weight gain can be concerns in diabetes management, they are not direct complications stemming from prolonged high blood sugar levels in the same way that ketoacidosis is. Hypotension is more associated with dehydration or other factors, respiratory distress can be related to various conditions not solely linked to high blood sugar, and weight gain is often a concern due to lifestyle factors, certain diabetes medications, or dietary patterns rather than a direct consequence of high blood sugar levels alone. Thus, recognizing ketoacidosis as a