What is acute delirium?
Delirium is a condition where there is a change in how you think and feel, and your level of consciousness. Consciousness is the state of how awake, alert, and aware you are of things around you. The word acute is used to describe problems that start suddenly, worsen quickly, and last for a short time. With acute delirium, you have trouble remembering things, working with people, or doing things you usually do. You are at greater risk for delirium if you are in a hospital or other health care setting. Older adults and those who have medical conditions, or just had surgery are also at higher risk. Acute delirium may come and go. It can quickly change between better and worse. For some people, treatment can make delirium go away, but for others, it continues for months or years. What causes acute delirium? Acute delirium may happen when areas and functions of your brain are damaged. One or more conditions can work together to cause delirium, or its cause may be unknown. The following may
