Q How would one differentiate between delirium and dementia?
Dementia typically begins slowly and is gradually noticed over time. If the person whos being evaluated is unknown to you, getting a report of his usual functioning is key. Delirium is usually a sudden change in a condition. One day, your loved one is doing fine, and the next, she may be very confused and unable to get dressed. Delirium is also known as acute confusional state, with the key being that it is acute, or sudden. The cause of dementia is typically a disease such as Alzheimers, vascular dementia, lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia or a related disorder. Delirium is usually triggered by a specific illness, such as a urinary tract infection, pneumonia, dehydration, illicit drug use, or withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. Dementia is generally a chronic, progressive disease that is incurable. Delirium can last for a couple of days to even a couple of months. Delirium is almost always temporary if the cause is identified and treated. Individuals living with dementia are highly susceptible to delirium.