MedicationsĬertain medications can cause confusion. This can affect the amount of electrolytes (minerals) your body contains, which can cause problems with your body’s ability to function. If you don’t replace these fluids often enough, you could eventually become dehydrated. Your body loses fluids everyday through sweating, urination, and other bodily functions. You may not start to feel confusion due to a concussion until a few days after the injury. You might pass out if you have a concussion, but it’s also possible to have one and not know it. A concussion can change someone’s level of alertness as well as their judgment, coordination, and speech. Alcohol intoxication is a common cause of confusion.Ī concussion is a brain injury that occurs as a result of head trauma. There are a number of factors that can cause confusion, from serious health problems to vitamin deficiencies. What are the underlying causes of confusion?

It’s especially important to call a doctor if you notice confusion alongside the following symptoms: If confusion follows a head injury or trauma, it could be a possible concussion and you should call 911 or go to an emergency room right away. If their confusion is extreme or reaching the point of delirium, the doctor may recommend admitting them to a hospital. A person experiencing confusion should be closely observed and protected from harming themselves or others. People experiencing confusion can sometimes act aggressively or unpredictably.

Being able to describe the characteristics and duration of the confusion will help your doctor diagnose its cause.

Your doctor will ask you or your loved one to indicate when the confusion started and when you last exhibited “normal” thinking and behavior. It’s important to find out what the underlying cause of the confusion is so that it can be treated. Confusion can have many causes, including injury, infection, substance use, and medications. If you or someone you know starts showing signs of confusion, call a doctor.

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