Delirium involves:
Brain Dysfunction: Acute disturbance of consciousness and cognition.
Causes: Various factors such as infections, medications, metabolic imbalances, and underlying medical conditions.
Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Disruption in neurotransmitter levels affecting brain function.
Complications: Delirium can lead to rapid changes in mental status, confusion, and altered perception.
Clinical Evaluation
Symptoms: Assessment of symptoms such as acute onset of confusion, disorientation, and difficulty focusing.
Physical Examination: Examination findings may include fluctuating mental status, altered sleep-wake cycle, and inattention.
Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests to identify underlying causes, neurological assessment, and imaging studies if indicated.
Acute onset of confusion and disorientation.
Fluctuating levels of consciousness.
Difficulty maintaining attention and focus.
Visual and auditory hallucinations in severe cases.
Altered sleep patterns and agitation.
Treatment focuses on addressing underlying causes and managing symptoms:
Management of Underlying Conditions: Treatment of infections, withdrawal of offending medications, and correction of metabolic imbalances.
Supportive Care: Ensuring a calm environment, reorienting the patient, and promoting sleep hygiene.
Medications: Sometimes, medications to manage agitation or hallucinations may be prescribed cautiously.
Family and Caregiver Support: Education and support for caregivers to assist in patient care and understanding.