As you get older, you are more likely to have delirium. People who are over 80 years old and have been diagnosed with some type of dementia are particularly at risk. However, delirium can happen in younger people as well, especially if they are critically ill or after surgery. Symptoms of delirium

Family members and carers are often the first to notice small changes. We've included quotes from family members describing behaviour and symptoms of delirium. This might help you to recognise symptoms. Disorientation In some cases, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking certain medications if they are causing delirium. Depending on how bad the delirium is, a person may need to go into hospital for treatment and management. For others, delirium can be treated at home. Sometimes, we give the person with delirium calming or sedating medicines. We use these medicines if the person is still distressed or unsafe after we have tried other ways to keep them calm. How long delirium lasts Diagnosis still relies on observing the characteristic signs, and therefore watching carefully for them. Types of deliriumThere are various symptoms that can help a family member or carer to recognise delirium. If you notice any of these symptoms, please tell a doctor or nurse. If you are experiencing substance withdrawal, you may be prescribed medication to manage your symptoms. Johansson YA, Bergh I, Ericsson I, Sarenmalm EK. Delirium in older hospitalized patients-signs and actions: a retrospective patient record review. BMC Geriatr. 2018;18(1):43. doi:10.1186/s12877-018-0731-5

Delirium can have different causes. Infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections are common causes. Dehydration, certain medications, an over-full bladder and even constipation – either alone or in combination – can also lead to delirium. Any condition that results in a hospital stay increases the risk of delirium. This is mostly true when someone is recovering from surgery or is put in intensive care. Delirium is more common in older adults and in people who live in nursing homes.Antipsychotic medications (the kind used to treat schizophrenia) have been used in low doses to help with symptoms of hyperactive delirium. But a recent Australian trial in palliative care patients found these medications were not only ineffective, but also detrimental to the patients. This reinforces the fact that medications should take second place to keeping the patient safe. My wife has mild dementia, but we usually manage fine at home. She still recognises most of our neighbours and friends. When she was in hospital, though, she did not even recognise me or our daughter.” Unusual thoughts Frequently asked questions about caregiving. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/frequently-asked-questions-about-caregiving. Accessed Sept. 20, 2022. Alcohol withdrawal delirium, or delirium tremens, is a form of the condition that can happen to people who drink large amounts of alcohol for many years. If someone who regularly drinks a lot suddenly tries to stop drinking, severe withdrawal including delirium is possible. Onset. The onset of delirium occurs within a short time — within a day or two. Dementia usually begins with minor symptoms that get worse over time.

Relatives can help by reminding the patient of what is happening, and where, to re-orientate them. Hospital environments can be designed to be safe for older patients with confusion. For example, providing natural light helps to keep day-night rhythms more normal, allowing patients to wander without risking harm. Physical restraints

The person may not know that anything is wrong. Family and friends are often the first to notice small changes. Treatment for delirium