Delirium is an acute and often fluctuating disturbance of consciousness and cognition. It typically presents with confusion, difficulty maintaining attention, and changes in awareness of the environment. It can develop rapidly over hours or days.
Key Points:
- Common Causes: Infections (e.g., urinary tract infections in older adults), metabolic imbalances, medication side effects, substance withdrawal, and head injuries.
- Symptoms: Disorientation, hallucinations or delusions, severe attention deficits, altered sleep-wake cycle.
- Reversibility: Often reversible if the underlying cause is identified and treated promptly (e.g., correcting dehydration, adjusting medications).
- Management: Close medical supervision, treating the primary cause, ensuring safety, and providing supportive care.
