Understand Delirium Treatments and Prevention
Delirium causes confusion in thinking, and a reduced sense of awareness. Delirium usually begins within a short time -- in a matter of hours or days. The cause of this condition is often a combination of factors such as severe illness or chronic disease, changes to metabolic balance (like low sodium), medications, infections, surgery or withdrawal from alcohol or drugs. Understanding delirium, its causes, treatment, and prevention is essential to maintaining cognition, especially among elderly people.
What Is Delirium?
Delirium occurs when a person experiences a change in their mental state. This can manifest as confusion, difficulty with concentrating, or a loss of awareness. Most common in the elderly and those who have cognitive impairments or are undergoing major medical procedures. The American Geriatrics Society reports that up to 50 percent of older adults experience delirium after surgery.
Delirium is a condition that can cause severe complications if not treated. The symptoms fluctuate all day long and are usually only temporary. Delirium and dementia are often confused, but they have different symptoms. While delirium can be reversible and occurs quickly, dementia is a slow, progressive disease.
Delirium: Common causes
Multiple causes can lead to delirium. Some examples include:
- Chronic or severe illnesses such as kidney disease or liver disease
- Hypoglycemia and hypercalcemia are metabolic imbalances.
- Some medications, particularly sedatives
- Withdrawal from alcohol or drugs
- The elderly are more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract infection or pneumonia
- Anesthesia is used in many medical procedures, including surgery.
Delirium Treatment
Treatment of delirium is based on the root cause. Some of the most common treatments are:
- Discontinue or adjust medications that could be contributing to delirium
- Treatment of metabolic disorders with medication or fluids
- Low-dose antipsychotics are used to treat hallucinations and agitation.
- Create a supportive and calm environment to help reduce confusion and anxiety
In a study published by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, it was found that within six months approximately 65% of delirium patients showed significant improvements.
Delirium: Expert opinions
Early detection and treatment are essential, according to experts. According to Dr. Sharon Inouye a Harvard Medical School professor and leading researcher, "Delirium is an indicator of how the hospital delivers care." This is a major indicator of quality. She also stresses the importance of first-line non-pharmacological treatments, such as reorienting patients to their environment and providing proper nutrition and hydration.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
There are many natural remedies that reduce the chance of developing delirium.
- Keep a healthy life style: Exercise regularly, maintain a well-balanced diet and get enough sleep to improve your health.
- Alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can all cause delirium.
- Keep your brain active by engaging it in activities like reading and puzzles. This will help to maintain good cognitive health.
Delirium affects many people, especially the elderly. Delirium is often caused by underlying medical conditions and treatments, which can cause serious complications. In order to manage this condition, it is important to recognize its symptoms and understand its causes. While the symptoms of delirium may be frightening, they can usually be treated and most people recover.
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