This is a condition wherein the person becomes very confused. When this happens there is a rapid change in the brain functions which alternates between normal functioning and disorientation, disorganized thinking, attention disruption and changes in their sensations. The forms of delirium are reversible and will only take effect temporarily.

Symptoms for delirium would include the following:

  • There is no purpose in their thinking and behaviour
  • Have poor concentration
  • wandering or disrupted attention
  • confused about place or time
  • changing levels of awareness or consciousness
  • bad short-term memory
  • hallucinations or delusions
  • slow moving or lethargic
  • changing sleep patterns; may feel drowsy
  • restless, hyperactive and agitated
  • personality or emotional changes
  • jumbled speech

Causes of delirium

Delirium can be a result of a variety of physical troubles like the following:

  • no flow of oxygen in the brain
  • street drugs like cannabis
  • poisons which include alcohol
  • medication like anti-depressants
  • base or acid disturbances
  • electrolyte or fluid disturbances
  • infections
  • heart failure or failures
  • pneumonia
  • thyroid dysfunctions
  • kidney failure
  • liver failure
  • anemia

Delirium can be a result of the following mental problems:

  • dementia
  • depression
  • anxiety

Treatments or therapies

Treatment and therapies are dependent on the cause of the delirium. If the delirium was caused by infections, taking in antibiotics may cure the problem in a few days. If delirium is a result of chronic dementia, then this type of delirium cannot be cured but there are possible medications which can relieve the symptoms of the disorder. People who have delirium can become violent and aggressive. When this happens they pose danger to themselves and to others. If this is the case, taking in medication can be done to control the unruly behaviour.