Although delirium and dementia share symptoms, it is very important to distinguish the differences between the two.
Dementia develops gradually. Delirium on the other hand, is am acute state of confusion. It is often brought on by a metabolic event; anesthesia, for example, or a change in the blood levels of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. If treated early, delirium is usually reversible. Dementia is not.
Persons with dementia can also suffer from delirium. In fact, one condition actually aggravates the other. The major symptoms of delirium are shown below.
Symptoms of Delirium |
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