What is delirium and how to respond

If you or someone you know has ever experienced delirium, it was probably a frightening experience. When you experience delirium, you may not know where — or who — you are. It comes on without warning and is usually debilitating. 

What is delirium?

“Delirium is a sudden change in one’s mental state,” said Asad Rehman, DO, a neurologist with Endeavor Health Medical Group. “The person becomes confused or disoriented, which can be characterized by things like forgetting a loved one’s name or having difficulty doing simple, routine tasks like putting on clothes.” 

Delirium is serious and may indicate that something is medically wrong, such as an infection, a reaction to medication, a stroke, or drug or alcohol withdrawal. “Seek medical attention immediately,” said Dr. Rehman.

Many other things can cause delirium, including infections, medications, sleep deprivation, or even being in unfamiliar environments. “As doctors, we commonly see hospital delirium where a patient who has no prior neurological issues becomes delirious after being in the hospital for several days,” says Dr. Rehman. 

Elderly people and people who are critically or chronically ill are at the highest risk for delirium. This is because they have reduced cognitive reserve, meaning when their brains are subjected to a new stressor, they cannot appropriately accommodate it, resulting in delirium. 

Sometimes, delirium only lasts for a few hours. Other times, it can be for several days until the underlying reason or stressor is alleviated.

How to respond to delirium

In cases of sudden delirium, you can help the person by calmly reminding them of where they are and that they are safe. It’s possible they may be experiencing delirium due to reasons like a sodium imbalance or exhaustion.

“If someone around you becomes delirious, it’s best to attempt to reorient them,” explained Dr. Rehman. “Ensuring they get a good night’s rest or eat well can also be beneficial.” 

However, because delirium can indicate a serious medical problem, if you exhibit any symptoms, visit your doctor right away for testing to get diagnosed and treated, either for the delirium or for its underlying cause.

“Talk to your doctor if you or someone you love ever experiences delirium,” said Dr. Rehman. “Don’t try to deal with a condition this serious or complicated by yourself.”