Final answer:
A person with delirium may die if the underlying cause is not identified and treated, as it is a serious mental state caused by various factors, including dehydration and acidosis, which can lead to life-threatening complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, a person with delirium may indeed die if the underlying cause is not identified and treated. Delirium is a serious disturbance in mental abilities that results in confused thinking and reduced awareness of the environment. The onset of delirium is usually rapid—within hours or a few days.
Delirium can be caused by a wide range of factors, including severe or chronic medical illness, changes in metabolic balance (such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalance), medication side effects, substance intoxication or withdrawal, and more. If untreated, the physiological disturbances that lead to delirium may result in serious complications. For instance, dehydration can lead to depression; even mild acidosis can cause lethargy, loss of appetite, and a run-down feeling. In severe cases, the person may slip into a coma requiring prompt medical treatment to save their life.