Some patients may experience rapid fluctuations between hypoactive and hyperactive states, that may be interjected with periods of intermittent lucidity. ![]() ĭelirium is typically an acute confusional state, defined by impairment of attention or cognition that usually develops over hours to days. Ĭhanges in mental status can be described as delirium (acute change in arousal and content), depression (chronic change in arousal), dementia (chronic change in arousal and content), and coma (dysfunction of arousal and content). Arousal includes wakefulness and/or alertness and can be described as hypoactivity or hyperactivity, while changes in the content of consciousness can lead to changes in self-awareness, expression, language, and emotions. Changes in consciousness can be categorized into changes of arousal, the content of consciousness, or a combination of both. The evaluation and management of altered mental status are broad and require careful history and physical examination to eliminate life-threatening situations.
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