Which of the following terms describes the sensation of extreme hunger associated with diabetes?

Polyphagia refers to the medical condition characterized by intense feelings of hunger that often occurs in individuals with diabetes, particularly when their blood sugar levels are not well-controlled. This condition arises because the body's cells are not receiving adequate glucose for energy, leading to an increased appetite as the body signals for more fuel. In diabetes, especially in Type 1 diabetes, insulin is either absent or insufficient, preventing glucose from entering cells, which in turn triggers the sensation of hunger as the body seeks alternative energy sources.

The other terms have different meanings. Anorexia refers to a loss of appetite, often related to psychological conditions or other health issues. Cachexia is a complex syndrome involving weight loss, muscle wasting, and a decrease in appetite, frequently seen in chronic illnesses like cancer. Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as purging. Each term describes a distinct condition, thereby clarifying why polyphagia is the correct response in this context.