8. Coexisting Conditions: The Tightrope of Delirium Management
One of the often-overlooked facets of delirium is its intricate relationship with coexisting conditions. Managing delirium in the presence of other health issues poses a significant challenge for healthcare professionals. Not only do they have to address the delirium symptoms but also understand how the treatment may interact with preexisting conditions.
The most common conditions coexisting with delirium include heart diseases, diabetes, and pulmonary disorders. These conditions often necessitate a particular line of medications or treatments that can either amplify or reduce the severity of delirium. When these coexisting conditions are poorly managed, it can exacerbate the delirium symptoms, creating a cyclical conundrum hard to solve.
A fascinating aspect of coexisting conditions is their ability to camouflage delirium. At times, symptoms of delirium overlap with those of the existing medical conditions, making it incredibly challenging to accurately diagnose the problem. Incorrect diagnosis can not only extend the patient’s suffering but may also introduce new health complications. (8)
