Delirium (acute confusional state) is a sudden change in a person's mental status, leading to confusion and unusual behavior.
Symptoms of delirium usually develop over the course of several hours to a few days. Symptoms may fluctuate and often include:
Delirium may be caused by withdrawal from alcohol or drugs or medicines. The development or worsening of an infection or other health problem can also lead to delirium. People who have dementia are more prone to delirium.
Symptoms of delirium usually develop over several hours to a few days. Symptoms may change and be more or less severe.
Symptoms include:
The doctor may:
You may be able to help your loved one by being present and talking to and touching him or her.
Delirium is a sudden change in mental condition. It leads to confusion and unusual behavior. Delirium is also called acute confusional state.
Delirium affects all age groups. It can result from problems that affect the brain, such as stroke. It can also happen after an infection or when using certain medicines. Pain may also cause the problem.
Seeing delirium in a loved one can be scary and sad. But it will go away most of the time. It usually lasts hours to days.
The doctor will look for a cause and take steps to treat it and keep your loved one comfortable.
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