What Is Confusion?
Having blackouts with no recollection of activities during that time can occur to anyone. A user may be in danger of harming themselves or their loved ones during such periods. The brain may temporarily function abnormally, leading to confusion.
To help a person suffering from confusion, it is important to keep track of their medical history, stay close to them and try to make their surroundings familiar. You can also help them seek the services of a professional.
Confusion is a state of disorientation whereby a person is bewildered or unclear of their surroundings, the date or time. It can sometimes lead to short- or long-term memory loss and can be challenging since the person is not able to use their instincts. Confusion often results in irrational behaviour whereby a person can become abnormal and unpredictable.
Such a state of mind can result from multiple illnesses. Therefore, it is vital to seek professional help to determine the cause of confusion for proper treatment. Confusion may be permanent, temporary, life-threatening or mild.
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Types of Confusion
Delirium is the first type of confusion. It results from a sudden and abnormal change in brain functionality. Medications, trauma and infections can trigger delirium, as can a change in surroundings — for instance, waking up from intensive care. Delirium is classified into three types: hyperactive, hypoactive and mixed delirium.
Hyperactive delirium refers to an overactive state of confusion that leaves a person agitated and restless, whereas hypoactive delirium is an underactive state of confusion where the person is sleepy or unable to respond.
Dementia is a form of confusion that is usually permanent and has consistent signs and symptoms. It can first be spotted by short-term memory loss that gradually becomes permanent.
Causes of Confusion
Drug abuse is a common cause of confusion, as a side effect of using drugs such as marijuana and prescribed medications. Additionally, it can result due to withdrawal from drug use. Head injuries can lead to confusion when the brain is temporarily affected. Heatstroke, hypoglycaemia and hypothyroidism may all lead to confusion.
Other causes of confusion include anxiety, schizophrenia, dehydration, kidney failure and fatigue.
Other factors that may result in confusion include hypothermia, epileptic seizures, jet lag, postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. Vitamin D deficiency can result in cognitive impairment, a condition that leads to a foggy brain.
Symptoms of Confusion
The shift of a person’s mood to an agitated state is one symptom of confusion. This usually happens due to anxiety A person in this state may become aggressive and try to harm anyone who tries to come in contact with them.
Difficulty in thinking and speech may also be seen. A confused person finds it difficult to think straight and relay their thoughts via speech. Another symptom is an altered consciousness, whereby the person is unable to tell the time or their surroundings.
A dishevelled look is another symptom of confusion. Such an individual tends to neglect their looks and may seem disorganized or untidy. Additionally, the person may have shivering episodes or an increased heartbeat and may experience headaches.
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