Delirium is a state of confused thinking and losing mental balance. It is a type of mental disorder that interferes with the normal functions of your brain. The individual may forget daily routine and lose contact with the environment. He/she may in a state of confusion seeing and hearing unnatural things that does not exist. Delirium can occur due to many causes like head injury, brain infection, drug toxicity and sudden metabolic changes. Intake of certain medications, certain type of chronic diseases and overuse of alcohol or drug can cause delirium. Delirium symptoms can be managed by combined approach of medications and supportive care.
Delirium Symptoms :
The signs of delirium may not last long and in most of the cases it occurs only for short period. For some people, it may last for few hours only and for some others it can continue for few days. There will be fluctuation of symptoms throughout the day. The affected person may have reduced awareness which can cause poor concentration, confused thinking and easy distraction over things. He may appear withdrawn paying no attention to the happenings and gives little or no response to the environment.
Delirium can cause symptoms like poor memory, disorientation (inability to identify the place or time of the day) and difficulty in understanding conversation. He may talk nonsense and may not respond to the questions in normal way. Delirium can also cause restlessness, irritability and aggression. The person may see and hear non-existent things. He may not sleep properly and may express strong emotions.
Delirium Causes :
Under normal conditions, brain sends and receives signals promptly. But delirium occurs when there is abnormality in the brain which would impair the route of signals. Brain’s activity may get disturbed by various factors. Severe infectious diseases, dehydration and intense skin problem can trigger the brain signals and block them. Prolonged stay in the hospital can make vulnerable to develop delirium.