Diagnosis Of Confusion

Medically reviewed by:

Dr Eddie Roche - Medical Officer

Updated: Aug 18, 2021

Next review: Aug 18, 2022

Confusion is often a symptom of another condition, so a doctor will explore the issue to try to determine the cause of it. It could be an injury, underlying condition, medication side effects, or an external cause, like carbon monoxide poisoning.

The doctor will ask you, or the person who is suffering from confusion, to tell them more about how the confusion is impacting you, when it started and any other characteristics that they think will help them diagnose the problem.

Our doctors may be able to diagnose the cause of the confusion, but if not, they will be able to write a referral letter to a specialist for further investigation or arrange blood or urine tests.

If the confusion comes on suddenly, or happens after an injury to the head, don’t wait to see a doctor. Go to the nearest hospital or call 999, especially there are other symptoms, such as blue lips.

Some of the symptoms of confusion can have an impact on various aspects of your life and early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent complications arising or the condition getting worse.

If you have experienced times when you have felt confused, sometimes lack concentration and have difficulty completing tasks, then you should consult a doctor. Speak to a family member or friend about how you’re feeling – they can help you get treatment.

Treatment at the earliest possible time may help protect against a medical emergency in the future.

Diagnosis Of Confusion

Dr Eddie Roche - Medical Officer

How is confusion diagnosed?

Why getting a diagnosis is so important