What Is Waxing and Waning Delirium?

Physicians describe delirium as a medical condition that causes a patient’s mental status to shift back and forth (sometimes explained as “waxing and waning”). Caregivers often think of it as when their family member seems “not themselves,” either in the hospital or after they come home.

How long does it take for delirium to resolve?

Delirium often clears in a few days or weeks. Some may not respond to treatment for many weeks. You may also see problems with memory and thought process that do not go away. Talk to your health provider about your concerns.

Delirium is an abrupt change in the brain that causes mental confusion and emotional disruption. It makes it difficult to think, remember, sleep, pay attention, and more. You might experience delirium during alcohol withdrawal, after surgery, or with dementia.

Can delirium be permanent?

Delirium is linked to a faster worsening of a person’s mental abilities and function. A person with dementia may have been able do something (for example, dress themselves) before delirium but are no longer able to afterwards. This change can be permanent.

Like other dementias, it is progressive and associated with a memory loss and increased confusion. Individuals with a Lewy body dementia typically have Parkinsonian symptoms, waxing and waning of memory and cognition, hallucinations, and problems with sleep.