Confusion

Confusion is a state of being bewildered or unclear in one's mind about something. It is a symptom that makes you feel as if you can't think clearly. You might feel disoriented and have a hard time focusing or making decisions. Confusion may come on quickly or slowly over time, depending on the cause.

Causes

Many things can cause confusion, including:

• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Certain types of cancer
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Infections
• Medications
• Mental health conditions
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Sleep deprivation
• Stroke

Symptoms

Symptoms of confusion can include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty speaking and understanding
• Difficulty with motor coordination
• Unusual or strange behavior
• Hallucinations
• Delusions

Diagnosis

To diagnose confusion, a doctor will likely start with a complete medical history and physical examination. They may also use:

• Blood tests
• Imaging tests
• Neurological tests
• Psychiatric evaluation

Treatment

Treatment for confusion will depend on the cause. It may include:

• Medications
• Hospitalization
• Psychotherapy
• Lifestyle changes

Prevention

Some causes of confusion may not be preventable. However, you can reduce your risk by:

• Staying hydrated
• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting regular exercise
• Getting enough sleep
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs
• Managing stress

See also

• Delirium
• Dementia
• Mental health

Confusion Resources
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