Agitation is a state of heightened

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and cognitive activity characterized by excessive or inappropriate verbal and physical behaviors, emotional excitement, and restlessness, often arising as a symptom of underlying medical, psychiatric, or neurological conditions. It is considered both a medical and psychiatric emergency due to the potential for harm to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers, and may escalate to aggression or violence if not promptly recognized and managed.

Causes

The etiology of agitation is multifactorial, encompassing acute medical illnesses (such as infections, metabolic disturbances, or pain), substance intoxication or withdrawal, delirium, and a spectrum of psychiatric disorders including mood, psychotic, and personality disorders

Diagnosis

Early identification and a systematic evaluation to determine underlying causes are critical, as agitation of unknown origin should be presumed to have a medical cause until proven otherwise, particularly in populations such as the elderly or those without a prior psychiatric history.

Management

Effective management relies on a combination of non-pharmacological de-escalation strategies and, when necessary, targeted pharmacological interventions, always prioritizing the safety of all involved.

References

{{Med-stub Psychiatric diagnosis Neuropsychiatry Neurology Symptoms and signs: Nervous system