Confusion

A sudden onset of confusion means that something is potentially wrong with the brain. Almost all conditions that affect the brain are life-threatening. In the case of sudden confusion, always call 911 immediately.

Causes of Confusion

There are several medical causes of confusion. One of the easiest ways to remember these causes is to use the mnemonic AEIOU TIPS:

• A - alcohol
• E - epilepsy or exposure (heat stroke, hypothermia)
• I - insulin (diabetic emergency)
• O - overdose or oxygen deficiency
• U - uremia (toxins due to kidney failure)
• T - trauma (shock or head injury)
• I - infection
• P - psychosis or poisoning
• S - stroke

AEIOU TIPS can be used to identify any condition that affects the brain.

• coma
• seizures
• dizziness (vertigo)
• blindness
• paralysis
• severe headache

Treatment for Confusion

There is no specific treatment for confusion. Treatment depends on finding a solution for the underlying cause of the confusion.