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Delirium (acute confusional state) is a sudden change in a person's
mental status, leading to confusion and unusual behavior.
Symptoms of delirium usually develop over the course of several
hours to a few days. Symptoms may fluctuate and often include:
Delirium may be caused by withdrawal from alcohol or drugs or
medicines. The development or worsening of an infection or other health
problem can also lead to delirium. People who have dementia are more prone to delirium.
Current as of:
November 20, 2015
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Myron F. Weiner, MD - Psychiatry, Neurology
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