Delirium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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delirium
[dɪˈlɪr.i.əm ]
Definition
medical condition
Delirium is a serious disturbance in mental abilities that results in confused thinking and decreased awareness of the environment. It can develop rapidly, often in response to a medical condition or substance intoxication. Symptoms may include hallucinations, agitation, and difficulty focusing. Delirium is typically reversible with appropriate medical intervention. It's most common in older adults, particularly those in hospitals or nursing homes.
Synonyms
confusion, disorientation, frenzy, hysteria, madness.
Examples of usage
- The patient experienced delirium after surgery.
- Delirium can often be triggered by dehydration.
- He was diagnosed with delirium caused by an infection.
- The doctor noted signs of delirium in the elderly patient.
- Managing medications is crucial in preventing delirium.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word has roots in Latin, stemming from 'delirare,' which means 'to be deranged' or 'to rave.'
- It was first used in medical texts in the 6th century to describe severe confusion that often accompanies illness.
- By the 19th century, it was often associated with extreme fever or intoxication.
Medicine
- Delirium can be caused by various factors, including infections, substance withdrawal, or dehydration.
- It is a common condition in hospitalized elderly patients, notably after surgeries or during serious illnesses.
- Symptoms can include confusion, hallucinations, and changes in attention or awareness.
Psychology
- This condition is not the same as dementia; delirium often develops rapidly and can be reversible, while dementia is usually chronic.
- Emotional distress and changes in sleep patterns can also contribute to the onset of this state.
- Research indicates that understanding and managing it properly can reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.
Literature
- In literature, characters experiencing this state often showcase heightened emotions, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
- Famous works, like Shakespeare's plays, often depict characters experiencing delirium, capturing both its chaos and vulnerability.
- The portrayal reflects societal attitudes towards mental states, linking them to supernatural or poetic experiences.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict characters in delirium as they confront life-threatening situations, emphasizing their emotional turmoil.
- Songs and poems have been inspired by the feeling of being 'lost' or disoriented, reflecting a form of delirium in their verses.
- The concept appears in various video games, where characters navigate surreal worlds when under distress or poison.
Origin of 'delirium'
The word 'delirium' comes from the Latin term 'delirium', which means 'out of the furrow'. This term reflects the notion of being out of one's senses or straying from the expected mental path. It was originally used in the context of agricultural practices where a plow straying out of its furrow was an annoyance. Over time, the term evolved into a medical term to describe a state of confusion and disorientation, especially in relation to acute illnesses and substance intoxication. The usage of the word has been documented since the 14th century, where it referred to a state of madness or craziness. As medical understanding grew, 'delirium' became a formal part of psychiatric and medical nomenclature, illustrating the complexities of cognitive disturbances related to various health issues.