Delirium

Delirium is an acute, often fluctuating disturbance in attention, awareness, and cognition that develops over a short period, usually hours to days. It is commonly triggered by medical illness, surgery, medication, substance intoxication or withdrawal, or infection. Delirium is especially common in elderly hospitalized patients. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt identification and treatment of the underlying cause.

⚠️Symptoms

• Rapid onset of confusion and reduced awareness
• Fluctuating attention and consciousness
• Disorganized thinking
• Perceptual disturbances (hallucinations)
• Sleep-wake cycle disturbance

🔍Causes

• Medical illness or infection
• Medication side effects or interactions
• Surgery or anesthesia
• Substance intoxication or withdrawal
• Metabolic imbalances

💊Treatment Options

• Treating the underlying medical cause
• Ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition
• Reorientation and calm environment
• Antipsychotic medication for severe agitation