Delirium
Alternate Names : Acute Confusion, Acute Delirium
Delirium can be caused by many medical conditions. It describes
the confused state of mind in a person. With delirium, the person may be
unable to maintain attention, and thinking may be disorganized. The brain
is unable to process information in the proper way.
What is going on in the body?
A person with delirium is unable to focus attention or reply
correctly to questions. Delirium usually comes on quickly and needs to be
assessed and treated right away. It can usually be turned around once the cause
is known. Delirium is more common in older people and
may uncover dementia that wasn't noticed before.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Delirium can be caused by many things including:
abnormal sodium, chloride, ammonia, or other electrolyte levels in the blood
alcohol
or drugs
head injury
liver or kidney failure, such as acute renal failure
low blood glucose
low oxygen levels in the blood
poisonings
seizures
severe dehydration
severe infections, such as a blood infection known as
sepsis
withdrawal from drugs or alcohol
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