Delirium is a medical condition that can resemble dementia but is distinctly different. Unlike dementia, delirium involves severe confusion that develops quickly (sudden onset) and varies in intensity.
Acute and sudden changes in memory
Reduced awareness of surroundings or heightened alertness
Agitation resulting from confusion
Difficulty focusing or paying attention
Emotional shifts, such as anxiety, sadness, or extreme happiness
Changes in sleep-wake patterns
Visual hallucinations
Delusions (false beliefs or thoughts)
Causes of Delirium
Delirium can result from various physical and medical factors, including:
Dehydration caused by low fluid intake, diuretics, or hot weather
Infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), pneumonia, or viruses
Temperature imbalances, including fever or low body temperature
Medication-related issues, such as overmedication, drug interactions, or side effects
Substance withdrawal, such as stopping alcohol or drug use
Drug interactions, including mixing over-the-counter remedies with prescribed medications
Severe medical conditions, especially when multiple or unstable
Physical injuries, such as fractures
Diseases or illnesses, such as liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or poorly controlled diabetes
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Delirium is a medical emergency that can often be reversed with the appropriate treatment, depending on its cause. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
If you suspect that someone is experiencing delirium, seek immediate medical attention. Timely care can save lives and help restore clarity and stability.
Symptoms may worsen at night or upon waking. Delirium is not normal, and its underlying causes require prompt medical attention, as untreated delirium can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Delirium
Delirium presents with a range of symptoms that can include:
Symptoms of Delirium
Delirium presents with a range of symptoms that can include:
Acute and sudden changes in memory
Reduced awareness of surroundings or heightened alertness
Agitation resulting from confusion
Difficulty focusing or paying attention
Emotional shifts, such as anxiety, sadness, or extreme happiness
Changes in sleep-wake patterns
Visual hallucinations
Delusions (false beliefs or thoughts)
Causes of Delirium
Delirium can result from various physical and medical factors, including:
Dehydration caused by low fluid intake, diuretics, or hot weather
Infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), pneumonia, or viruses
Temperature imbalances, including fever or low body temperature
Medication-related issues, such as overmedication, drug interactions, or side effects
Substance withdrawal, such as stopping alcohol or drug use
Drug interactions, including mixing over-the-counter remedies with prescribed medications
Severe medical conditions, especially when multiple or unstable
Physical injuries, such as fractures
Diseases or illnesses, such as liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or poorly controlled diabetes
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Delirium is a medical emergency that can often be reversed with the appropriate treatment, depending on its cause. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
If you suspect that someone is experiencing delirium, seek immediate medical attention. Timely care can save lives and help restore clarity and stability.
