What are the causes of delirium?

What are the causes of delirium?

In some cases, providers can’t find a cause of delirium.

Known causes of delirium include:

• Alcohol or illegal drug toxicity, overdose or withdrawal.
• Overwhelming reaction to infections such as pneumonia, sepsis and urinary tract infections.
• Changes in the environment.
• Dehydration.
• Medications, such as those with anticholinergic effects (including antihistamines), psychoactive drugs and opioids.
• Hormonal issues (such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism).
• Hospitalization or surgery.
• Kidney or liver injury or failure.
• Lack of oxygen to your tissues.
• Lack of sleep.
• Pain.