Delirium is not a disease, but a clinical syndrome caused by many reasons. It is often caused by diffuse brain, temporary toxic infection or metabolic disorder.

Delirium is manifested as consciousness disorder, mental trance, inability to concentrate, and decreased awareness of the surrounding environment and things. The disturbance of consciousness has obvious circadian rhythm change, which is characterized by light day and heavy night. Patients can answer questions during the day and get confused at night.

Extended data

The following six types of patients are more prone to delirium: ① the elderly, ② children, ③ after cardiac surgery, ④ burns, ⑤ brain injuries and ⑤ drug addicts.

Recently, an epidemiological study was conducted in two foreign general hospitals, and it was found that 30% and 50% of the elderly aged 70 and over had delirium symptoms respectively. However, most elderly patients with physical diseases often stay at home for treatment when accompanied by mild mental disorder, so the incidence of delirium in the elderly seems to be much higher than generally estimated.

Baidu encyclopedia-delirium

Baidu Encyclopedia-Delirium Syndrome and Related Diseases