Most cases have a trigger, rather than arising spontaneously. Consider:
- Alterations/compliance in use of medication
- Changes to diet, including possible eating disorders
- Infection of any kind
- Trauma or surgery
- Myocardial infarction or stroke
- Pregnancy
- Changes in drug treatments which may impact on carbohydrate metabolism (e.g. glucocorticoids)
- Chaotic lifestyle, especially in young adults
- Recreational drug use (especially sympathomimetics)