Confusion

Alternate Names : Confusional State, Mental Dysfunction

How is the symptom diagnosed?

When someone is confused, the doctor will try to determine the cause. A medical history and physical exam is done first. In some cases, this may be all that is needed to figure out the cause. Further testing is often needed, however.

Blood tests are commonly done to help check for salt or hormone imbalances, liver disease, and many other conditions. Urine testing can help rule out an infection or kidney problem. A chest X-ray can be done to look for lung conditions, such as pneumonia. Other tests may be needed in some cases. For example, a cranial CT scan can be done to look for a stroke or brain tumor.