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 someone you care about can be scary and sad. But it will go away most of the time. It usually lasts from a few days to several weeks.
The doctor will look for a cause and take steps to treat it and keep the person comfortable.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of delirium usually develop over several hours to a few days. Symptoms may change and be more or less severe.
Symptoms include:
A short attention span.
Confusion. This is not knowing where you are, what time it is, or who others are.
Hallucinations. This usually is seeing or hearing things that are not really there.
Delusions. This is believing things that aren't true.
Disorganized thinking.
How is delirium treated?
How delirium is treated depends on what the cause is. For example, if the cause of delirium is dehydration, the doctor may give the person fluids through an intravenous (I.V.) tube. If an infection is causing delirium, the doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. Other medicines may also be prescribed to help delirium.
It may also help to keep the hospital room as quiet as possible. You may be able to comfort the person who has delirium by being present and talking to and touching them.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
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Clinical Review Board All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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