|
Delirium
Delirium is defined as a loss of contact with reality. It may start as confusion or difficulty in focusing attention, and then deteriorate to disordered thinking, memory loss, and clouded consciousness. In some instances, there may also be hallucinations or other perceptual disturbances. Whatever the cause, delirium should always be regarded as a serious symptom that requires prompt medical attention.
Causes of delirium
Alcohol or drug abuse
Alcoholism is the most common cause of delirium. Sudden withdrawal of alcohol can produce a serious condition called delirium tremens, which is characterized by marked confusion, uncontrolled shaking, and terrifying hallucinations. A number of illicit drugs, especially LSD, crack cocaine, and PCP, can also produce severe hallucinations and delirium.
Brain tumors or abscesses
Any encroachment on the brain can cause delirium. Typically, the symptoms come on gradually, and the delirium may be preceded by personality changes, headache, numbness, paralysis, or unexplained changes in body functions.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, usually due to a viral infection. Less commonly, encephalitis may be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. Delirium is common; other symptoms include a high fever, a severe pounding headache, a stiff neck, and vomiting.
Head injury
Delirium following a head injury warrants emergency treatment, since it may be a sign of bleeding into the brain tissue or brain swelling. Other serious warning signs include bleeding from the ear or nose and vomiting.
Heat stroke
Heat stroke is a serious condition brought on by dehydration and an upset in the body's chemical balance as a result of overexposure to heat. In addition to delirium, symptoms include dry skin and mouth, decreased urine output, and rapid, shallow breathing.
Insulin reaction
An overdose of insulin can result in a rapid drop of blood sugar, a condition called hypoglycemia. Early warning signs include increased irritability, nervousness, tremors, mood changes, weakness, and palpitations. If hypoglycemia is not reversed by consuming a simple sugar to raise blood glucose, it can worsen and other symptoms, including delirium, may develop.
Meningitis
This is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. There are many types of meningitis, but the most common are caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other infections. Symptoms include a severe headache, a high fever, vomiting, a stiff neck, and delirium.
Mental illness
Delirium is a common symptom associated with serious mental illnesses, such as psychosis, schizophrenia, and dementia. The delirium may come on suddenly, as in a psychotic breakdown, or it may be more gradual, as in Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Mountain sickness
Any prolonged lack of oxygen can bring on delirium. An insidious example is the delirium that is caused by mountain sickness, which occurs when a person abruptly travels to a high altitude. Early warning signs include weakness, rapid breathing, palpitations, and lightheadedness. These may be followed by delirium and loss of consciousness if the person is not moved to a lower altitude or given extra oxygen.
Poisoning and drug overdose
A number of toxic substances, including lead, arsenic, mercury poisonous mushrooms, or food toxins, can cause delirium. Similarly, the venom from poisonous snakes, scorpions, and some spiders or other insects can cause delirium. Overdoses of certain medications, including digitalis and bromides, also can produce delirium.
Reye's syndrome
This is a serious disease characterized by brain swelling and a fatty liver. It strikes children and adolescents, coming on abruptly during recovery from a viral illness, such as the flu or chickenpox. Early symptoms include persistent and severe vomiting, irritability, fever, headache, and aggressive, often violent behavior. If untreated, these may be followed by delirium and loss of consciousness.
Advice about delirium
- Delirium should always be investigated by a doctor, even if it is only temporary. Delirium or other mental change associated with alcohol or use of illicit drugs is a serious warning sign to seek help.
|
