Confusion

Alternative names:

mental dysfunction

Definition:

A mental state in which a person is unsure of time, place, or identity.

Considerations:

Confusion is generally characterized by bewilderment, lack of orderly thought, and inability to make decisions.

Depending on what causes the confusion, it may come on suddenly or gradually over time. In some cases it is temporary, and in others it is permanent and irreversible.

Confusion is more common in the elderly and often occurs in hospitalized patients. Confusion is often made worse by stress.

Common causes:

• alcohol intoxication
• low blood sugar
• head trauma or head injury
• concussion
• fluid and electrolyte imbalance
• nutritional deficiencies, particularly niacin deficiency, thiamine deficiency, vitamin C deficiency, or vitamin B-12 deficiency
• hyperthermia (fever)
• hypothermia (drop in body temperature can cause sudden confusion)
• hypoxemia (chronic pulmonary disorders can produce persistent confusion)
• environmental (such as heat stroke, heavy metal poisoning, hypothermia, or methanol intoxication)
• drugs such as atropine, chloroquine, cimetidine, CNS depressants in large doses, cycloserine, digitalis medicines - oral, indomethacin, lidocaine, withdrawal from narcotics and barbiturates

Note: There may be other causes of confusion. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for confusion, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.