Sudden confusion (delirium)
Sudden confusion is a rapid change in mental state, often caused by infection, medication, dehydration, or acute illness. It is a medical emergency and requires urgent assessment.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
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Sudden confusion (delirium) can have many different causes. Get medical help immediately if someone suddenly becomes confused (delirious).
How to tell if someone is confused
If a person is confused, they may:
- not be able to think or speak clearly or quickly
- not know where they are (feel disorientated)
- struggle to pay attention or remember things
- see or hear things that are not there (hallucinations)
Try asking the person their name, their age and today's date. If they seem unsure or cannot answer you, they probably need medical help.
See a GP if:
- you're worried that you or a relative have gradually become more forgetful or confused
It may not be anything serious, but it's best to get checked.
In older people, forgetfulness and confusion are sometimes signs of dementia.
Go to A&E or call 112 if:
- someone suddenly becomes confused
Many causes of sudden confusion need to be assessed and treated as soon as possible. Sometimes it may be life threatening.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Things you can do while waiting for an ambulance
If you're with someone who has suddenly become confused, there are things you can do while waiting for medical help.
Do
- stay with the person – tell them who you are and where they are, and keep reassuring them
- use simple words and short sentences
- make a note of any medicines they're taking, if possible
Don’t
- do not ask lots of questions while they're feeling confused
- do not stop the person moving around, unless they're in danger
Causes of sudden confusion
Sudden confusion can be caused by many different things. Do not try to self-diagnose. Get medical help if someone suddenly becomes confused or delirious.
Some of the most common causes of sudden confusion include:
- an infection – urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause in older people or people with dementia
- a stroke or TIA ("mini-stroke")
- a low blood sugar level in people with diabetes
- a head injury
- some types of prescription medicine
- alcohol poisoning or alcohol withdrawal
- taking drugs
- carbon monoxide poisoning – especially if other people you live with also become unwell
- a severe asthma attack or other problems with the lungs or heart
- certain types of seizures caused by epilepsy
