Hypoactive delirium nhs

People with hypoactive delirium may feel more sleepy and be less responsive. In many older people, and especially those with dementia, delirium causes them to be abnormally withdrawn and sleepy. Hypoactive delirium can easily be missed or mistaken for depression, even by a health professional.

1. What is hypoactive delirium?
2. What causes hypoactive delirium?
3. How do you treat hypoactive delirium?
4. What is the difference between hyperactive and hypoactive delirium?

What is hypoactive delirium?

Hypoactive delirium is characterised by reduced motor activity, lethargy, withdrawal, drowsiness and staring into space. It is the most common delirium in older people. 'Mixed' delirium is where people have features of hyperactive and hypoactive delirium.

What causes hypoactive delirium?

Possible causes include: Certain medications or drug toxicity. Alcohol or drug intoxication or withdrawal. A medical condition, such as a stroke, heart attack, worsening lung or liver disease, or an injury from a fall.

How do you treat hypoactive delirium?

The hyperactive and hypoactive delirium also varies in the way they are managed: Treatment with antipsychotic medication and the use of physical restraints are generally prompted by motor agitation and behavioral problems often present in patients with hyperactive delirium (O'Keeffe and Lavan, 1999; Freeman et al., ...

What is the difference between hyperactive and hypoactive delirium?

Hyperactive delirium is characterized by restlessness, hypervigilance, rapid speech, irritability, and combativeness, whereas hypoactive delirium is characterized by psychomotor retardation, apathy, and reduced alertness.