Overview
Delirium develops over hours or days and often happens in older people who are unwell, in hospital or after surgery. It is a medical emergency, and treating the cause usually helps it improve.
Symptoms
- Sudden confusion and difficulty paying attention
- Being unusually sleepy or agitated
- Disorganised thinking or speech
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there
- Symptoms that come and go, often worse at night
Causes and risk factors
Common causes include infections, dehydration, medicines, alcohol withdrawal, low oxygen, pain, constipation, urine retention and surgery. Older age and dementia increase the risk.
Diagnosis
A doctor assesses attention and mental state and looks for the cause with blood and urine tests and other investigations.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on the cause. A calm environment, family support, good lighting, glasses and hearing aids, fluids and normal sleep patterns help recovery.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent medical care if someone becomes suddenly confused, drowsy or agitated.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
