What is delirium?
Delirium is a change in a person’s mental state or consciousness, which is often shown as new confusion, difficulties with understanding and memory, or personality changes. There are different kinds of delirium – some people may be agitated and restless or have delusions and hallucinations which is known as a hyperactive delirium. Others may become unusually sleepy and withdrawn which is known as a hypoactive delirium. Some people may experience a mixture of hyperactive and hypoactive spells which is known as a mixed delirium.
Delirium is a common and serious illness in people in hospital or long-term care (nursing or residential care). Delirium can also occur in your own home. However, delirium can be prevented and treated if dealt with urgently.
Delirium usually develops over 1 or 2 days and is usually temporary. Some people may have delirium when they first come to hospital or long-term care, or it may develop during a hospital stay or long-term care.
People who develop delirium can be at risk of other problems such as falls and pressure sores. People who are already in hospital may need to stay for longer and are more likely to go into long-term care.
For more information about delirium, download the patient information leaflet by clicking here.