What is a potential complication of untreated hypoglycemia?

Untreated hypoglycemia can lead to significant neurological complications due to the brain’s dependence on glucose as its primary energy source. When blood glucose levels drop, the brain is deprived of the necessary fuel, which can result in various neurological symptoms. One of the most serious potential complications is the occurrence of seizures.

Seizures can happen as the body's nervous system becomes increasingly compromised due to low glucose levels. If the hypoglycemia persists, the risk of seizures increases as the brain struggles to function properly. Without immediate treatment to raise blood sugar levels, these seizures can further complicate the patient’s condition and lead to long-term neurological damage.

In contrast, while hyperthermia, hypertension, and stroke are serious medical conditions, they are not direct consequences of untreated hypoglycemia in the same manner as seizures. Hyperthermia and hypertension do not arise directly from low blood sugar and are generally related to other underlying conditions or causes. A stroke, while it can occur within a high-risk context, is not a typical immediate consequence of hypoglycemic events unless there are contributing factors such as pre-existing cardiovascular issues. Therefore, seizures stand out as a direct and acute potential complication of untreated hypoglycemia.