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The term “mental confusion” is often used synonymously with “off the hook,” “bonkers,” or “crazy” in modern day slang. However, it can be much more than not knowing something, or just being “out of it.” Read on to learn more about mental confusion as an actual medical condition.

Definition

Clinically, mental confusion is used interchangeably with delirium, and are both defined as an inability to focus, loss of memory, and general disorganization of behavior that leads to poor judgment and actions. It is important to note that delirium and dementia are two different conditions, even if they have similar signs and symptoms; the former can be more acute and short-tem, while the latter takes place over a period of time and is more permanent.

Types

Generally, there are three types of mental confusion:
Hypoactive: the affected individual is sleepy, withdrawn, unresponsive, and seemingly lost in his or her state of mind. This type is harder to detect based on its passive nature, and can be misdiagnosed as depression.
Hyperactive: the affected individual is agitated, full of energy, and has delusions or hallucinations. This is usually the more difficult type of delirium, as the hyperactive patient can interfere with treatment procedures. This can also be misdiagnosed as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Mixed: the affected individual possesses both traits of hypoactive and hyperactive delirium.

More than two-thirds of the cases are hyperactive or mixed delirium. All three types possess similar signs and symptoms of mental confusion.

Signs And Symptoms

All types of mental confusion share similar signs and symptoms, including:
Depression
Delusions
Hallucinations
Restlessness, anxiety, irritability
Disturbed sleeps
Clouded consciousness or awareness
Decreased or no attention span
Loss or decreased short-term memory
Disorganized speech and thought process
Disorientation
Reversing day and night
Difficulty writing, drawing or finding words
Emotional and behavioral changes
Unsteady gait and/or tremors
Tendency to wander in a confused manner

Other types of mental conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, have similar symptoms as that of mental confusion. Delirium can also be an indication of other life-threatening conditions that may not be immediately present (such as sepsis of the body), so be sure to seek a medical professional for the proper diagnosis.

Causes

There are many factors that can cause mental confusion, and almost all of them have to do with the brain or the neurological system. Potential causes for delirium can include but are not limited to:
Cancers or tumors of the brain
Withdrawal from medications or abused substances
Side effects of medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy
Fluid or mineral imbalance within the body, specifically calcium or potassium
Organ failure
Infection of the spinal cord or brain-related parts
Lack of oxygen in the blood
Other brain disorders
Post-surgery effects
Psychological trauma or abuse
Malnutrition
Old age (greater than 65 years old)
Migraines
Vitamin D, thiamin, or vitamin B12 deficiency
Other hormonal disorders
Trauma to the head or brain
Sepsis of the body
High fevers
Malaria
Poison from neurological toxins

Tips For Management

If you are taking care of a loved one who is suffering from delirium without a treatable cause, here are few ways that can help with management:

1. Supportive management. This can be employed with individuals who goes in and out of mental confusion with clear episodes in between:
Adopt a clear communication model
Remind the person of the date, time, location, and identification of surrounding others
Have a clock available
Keep the patient around familiar objects from home
Keep the doctor and nurse staff consistent
Keep the patient relaxed
Keep the family and care givers involved

2. Environmental management. This can provide a relaxed atmosphere to minimize recurring episodes:
Avoid extreme sensory stimulation
Regulate sleep schedule
Keep the room spacious, controlled, and calming
Provide good nutrition
If the patient wanders, have familiar family members distract them and bring them back to the present

3. Medical management. This involves a series of treatment, therapy, or medication as prescribed by the physician. Depending on the individual’s needs, the doctor may prescribe antipsychotics or antidepressants. If the person’s delirium is due to substance abuse, such as drugs or alcohol, rehabilitation programs may be employed for proper recovery.

4. Do not be afraid to ask for help. There are doctors, nurses, and in-home care takers who can make this a better experience for both yourself and your affected loved one.

Taking care and managing a loved one suffering from mental confusion can be extremely trying and exhausting. Be sure to take care of your own health as well, and do not be afraid to speak out or ask for help.