What long-term complication can stem from high blood sugar?

High blood sugar levels over an extended period can lead to various long-term complications, with nerve damage being one of the most common and significant. This condition, known as diabetic neuropathy, occurs because elevated glucose levels can damage the nerves throughout the body, especially in the limbs. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness, pain, or weakness, and it can affect various nerves, leading to complications such as gastrointestinal issues or cardiovascular problems.

This is a crucial concern for individuals with diabetes, as managing blood sugar levels is essential to minimizing the risk of such complications. Other options like improved vision, increased muscle mass, and lower risk of heart disease do not align with the typical consequences of unmanaged high blood sugar. In fact, high blood sugar can lead to vision problems like diabetic retinopathy, a potential cause of blindness, and can increase the risk of heart disease over time as well.