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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Central nervous system

Overview Treatment

Behavior - unusual or strange

Alternative Names:

Acting strangely

Home Care:

For dementia or delirium that appears to be caused by a brain tumor, head injury, stroke, infection, fever, or pneumonia, seek immediate medical attention.

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For delirium caused by anxiety and emotional problems, reassurance and loving support are recommended. Frequent feedback about time, place, and names of people providing care can be helpful.

For delirium or dementia caused by malnutrition, a proper diet and vitamin supplements are recommended after medical evaluation.

For delirium caused by medication, consult your doctor about adjusting dosage, changing medications, or discontinuing them.

For delirium or dementia caused by alcohol in excess, complete abstinence is required.

For delirium related to illicit drug use, stop taking the offending substance.

For delirium caused by emotional problems, psychological counseling is recommended.

For delirium caused by hypothermia, adequate heat and warmth is required. Re-warming should be carefully monitored.

Delirium that follows surgery is usually temporary, but avoid prolonged use of sedatives and pain killers.

For dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease, there is no prevention, but possible new treatments should be discussed with the doctor. Sympathetic care, occupational therapy, and family support are needed.

For dementia caused by Huntington's chorea, provide supportive care.

For delirium resulting from environmental causes, make a concerted effort to modify the environment or change environments.

For delirium caused by low thyroid function, see your health care provider about thyroid hormone replacement treatment.

Call your health care provider if:

Contact your regular health care provider or a neurologist if:

• Dementia or delirium is present
• Unusual or strange behavior is severe, prolonged, unexplained, or is impairing lifestyle