DELIRIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Delirium refers to a temporary and often fluctuating state of confusion, disorientation, and impaired cognitive functioning. It is primarily characterized by an altered mental state in which an individual experiences a rapid onset of severe confusion and cognitive disturbances. Delirium can be caused by various factors, such as medical conditions, substance abuse, medication side effects, or withdrawal from certain substances.
Symptoms associated with delirium may include an inability to concentrate, memory deficits, disorganized thinking, hallucinations, agitation, restlessness, and fluctuating levels of consciousness. Individuals suffering from delirium may exhibit abnormal behaviors or mood changes that are uncharacteristic of their usual personality traits. Their perception of reality may be distorted, leading to unpredictable and confused actions.
Delirium can be a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. It may be caused by underlying health conditions like infections, metabolic imbalances, or neurological disorders. Certain populations, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments, may be particularly vulnerable to developing delirium.
Diagnosis of delirium typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's medical history, physical examination, and mental status assessment. The underlying cause of delirium should be determined and treated accordingly. Treatment may involve addressing the primary cause, ensuring patient safety by providing a calm and structured environment, managing any associated symptoms or distress, and providing support and reassurance to the affected individual and their families.
Overall, delirium is a temporary state of severe confusion and cognitive impairment that requires prompt medical attention, as it can be a symptom of an underlying serious medical condition.
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A condition of extreme mental, and usually motor, excitement, marked by a rapid succession of confused and unconnected ideas, often with illusions and hallucinations.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A wandering of the mind; a disorder of the intellect; temporary insanity caused by a diseased state of the body, as in fever.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DELIRIUM *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DELIRIUM
Etymology of DELIRIUM
The word "delirium" comes from the Latin term "delirare", which is a combination of "de-" meaning "from" or "out of", and "lira", meaning "furrow" or "track". In Latin, "delirare" originally referred to someone deviating from a furrow or track, particularly in the context of plowing. Over time, the term's meaning expanded and evolved to describe a state of mental disturbance or confusion, which is the sense in which it is commonly used today.
Idioms with the word DELIRIUM
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Delirium
"Delirium" is an idiom that refers to a state of extreme excitement, restlessness, confusion, or wild behavior, typically associated with a fever or illness. It can also denote a state of great happiness or euphoria.
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