SUBACUTE DELIRIUMS Meaning and
Definition
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Subacute deliriums, also known as subacute confusional states, are neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by a state of acute confusion and altered mental status. Delirium refers to a condition where an individual experiences disturbances in attention, thinking, and consciousness. Subacute deliriums typically develop over a period of days or weeks, in contrast to the more sudden onset of acute delirium.
People with subacute deliriums exhibit a range of symptoms, including cognitive impairment, disorientation, and memory deficits. They may suffer from fluctuations in their levels of alertness, with periods of increased agitation or drowsiness. Additionally, individuals may struggle in maintaining a coherent thought process and experience difficulties with communication.
The underlying causes of subacute deliriums vary, but they are often associated with medical conditions or physiological factors. Common causes include infections, metabolic imbalances, medication side effects or interactions, and acute illness in the elderly or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments.
The diagnosis of subacute deliriums involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's medical history, physical examination, and cognitive assessments. Medical tests may be conducted to identify the underlying cause of the delirium. Treatment focuses on managing the causative factors, such as treating infections or adjusting medications, in order to resolve the delirium. Supportive measures, such as ensuring a calm environment, addressing sensory deficits, and coordinating rehabilitation services, may also be implemented.
It is essential to promptly recognize and treat subacute deliriums, as they can lead to significant functional impairment and increased risk of morbidity and mortality if left untreated.
Common Misspellings for SUBACUTE DELIRIUMS
- aubacute deliriums
- zubacute deliriums
- xubacute deliriums
- dubacute deliriums
- eubacute deliriums
- wubacute deliriums
- sybacute deliriums
- shbacute deliriums
- sjbacute deliriums
- sibacute deliriums
- s8bacute deliriums
- s7bacute deliriums
- suvacute deliriums
- sunacute deliriums
- suhacute deliriums
- sugacute deliriums
- subzcute deliriums
- subscute deliriums
- subwcute deliriums
- subqcute deliriums
Etymology of SUBACUTE DELIRIUMS
The etymology of the word "subacute deliriums" can be broken down as follows:
1. Sub-: a prefix derived from the Latin preposition "sub", meaning "under" or "below". In medical terminology, it often denotes a milder or less severe form of a condition.
2. Acute: derived from the Latin word "acutus", meaning "sharp" or "severe". It describes a condition that is sudden, intense, or severe in nature.
3. Delirium: derived from the Latin word "delirare", which means "to go off the furrow". It refers to a state of mental confusion and agitation, often resulting from an underlying medical condition or drug intoxication.
4. -s: a suffix used to form plural nouns.
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