Psychiatry, conditions
Sudden confusion is a medical emergency. If someone suddenly becomes confused, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department now. Do not wait for a routine appointment.
Get help now if someone becomes confused over hours or days. Some causes can be life threatening. Signs include:
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department. See crisis lines.
Stay with the person, and bring their medicines or a list of them if you can do so without delay. Many causes of sudden confusion need treatment quickly. Do not try to work out the cause yourself.
While you wait for help:
Delirium is a sudden change in thinking and attention, over hours or days. A person may not think or speak clearly. They may not know where they are.
They may struggle to pay attention or remember things. Some see or hear things that are not there.
The confusion often comes and goes during the day. A quick check is to ask their name, their age and today's date. If they seem unsure or cannot answer, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Yes. Delirium does not always look like agitation. Some people become withdrawn, slow to respond, sleepy and less interested in food. This quiet kind is often missed.
A person who already has dementia can also get delirium. So a sudden change in someone with dementia still needs emergency medical care now.
Slow forgetfulness over months is different. It needs a doctor's visit, but it is not usually an emergency.
Many things can, and doctors need to find the cause. Common causes include:
Often more than one cause is involved. Treatment focuses on finding and treating the causes.
Tell the team what the person is usually like and exactly when the change started. Mention any recent illness, falls, new medicines, alcohol or drugs.
A familiar face can help the person feel calmer and less lost. Gently remind them where they are and who you are. Make sure they have their glasses and hearing aids, if they use them.
Yes. The person should still get explanations they can follow. Short, clear words help. You can ask the team what they are doing, why, and when it will be reviewed.
If you know what matters to the person, tell the team. Your view helps, but it does not replace the medical assessment.
Delirium is common and often temporary, but follow-up with the person's own doctors matters. Before leaving hospital, ask:
If the confusion does not clear, their doctors can look again for causes and may check memory later.
Some people remember the confusion and find it upsetting. Talking about it with their doctor can help.
