US Medical Term · symptoms
Delirium
Delirio
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Delirium |
| Spanish (Español) | Delirio |
| Chinese (中文) | 譫妄 |
| Korean (한국어) | 섬망 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Mê sảng |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Delirium |
| Portuguese (Português) | Delirium |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ภาวะสับสนเฉียบพลัน |
| Japanese (日本語) | せん妄 |
What it means
Delirium is a sudden, serious change in mental state marked by confusion, disorientation, impaired attention, and sometimes hallucinations. It develops rapidly, often over hours or days, and can fluctuate throughout the day. It is common in hospitalized older adults and is triggered by serious infection, high fever, medication side effects, surgery, dehydration, or withdrawal from alcohol or drugs. Delirium is a medical emergency. Family members often notice behavioral changes first. Treatment focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Early recognition is critical because untreated delirium can worsen outcomes and lead to prolonged confusion or cognitive decline.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My father became very confused and disoriented overnight in the hospital.
Mi padre se puso muy confundido y desorientado durante la noche en el hospital.
She does not recognize where she is and keeps saying things that do not make sense.
Ella no reconoce dónde está y sigue diciendo cosas que no tienen sentido.
He seems confused and agitated and this started suddenly this morning.
Parece confundido y agitado y esto comenzó repentinamente esta mañana.
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
F05 Delirium due to known physiological conditionRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026