 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Delirium
Definition:
Delirium is a condition of severe confusion and rapid changes in brain function. It is usually caused by a treatable physical or mental illness. Alternative Names:
Acute confusional state; Acute brain syndrome Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Acute confusional states most often result from physical or mental illness and are usually temporary and reversible. Disorders that cause delirium are numerous and varied. They may include conditions that deprive the brain of oxygen or other substances. Delirium may be caused by diseases of body systems other than the brain, by poisons, by fluid/electrolyte or acid/base disturbances, and by other serious, acute conditions. Infections such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia may trigger delirium in individuals with pre-existing brain damage (prior strokes, dementia). Patients with more severe pre-existing brain injury are more likely to develop delirium from additional illness.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. | |
| 
.gif)
