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Mental confusion or decreased alertness is the inability to think clearly and quickly. When confused, one has difficulty concentration, paying attention and may feel dizzy or depersonalized. Confusion interferes with ones ability to make decisions clearly and correctly. Many health problems cause confusion or decreased alertness. Decreased alertness may occur when a person is not fully awake, aware of, or able to respond normally to his or her external environment. Decreased alertness may also indicate that a chronic illness has worsened.
Causes[]
- Sluggish cognitive tempo
- Intoxication
- Low blood sugar
- Head trauma or head injury
- Concussion
- Lack of fluid (dehydration)
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Nutritional deficiency
- Fever
- Sudden drop in body temperature (hypothermia)
- Low level of oxygen
- Medications
- Psychosis
- Lack of sleep
- Illness
Symptoms[]
Confusion may range from mild to severe. Symptoms of confusion may include:
- Jumbled or disorganized thoughts
- Unusual, bizarre, or aggressive behavior
- Difficulty solving problems
- Difficulty performing tasks that used to be simple for the person
- Inability to identify whereabouts or recognize family members or familiar objects
- Illusions
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
Cures[]
Although it is not an actual cure, time, a walk in the park, or meditation can alleviate the symptoms of confusion. However, methods of curing more serious episodes of confusion must be determined by a doctor.
See also[]
External links[]
| This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors). |
- ↑ Frackelton JP, Christensen, RL (1998). Mercury Poisoning and Its Potential Impact on Hormone Regulation and Aging: Preliminary Clinical Observations Using a New Therapeutic Approach. Journal of Advancement in Medicine 11 (1): 9-25.