Confusion itself is not contagious and poses no risk to others. If confusion is the result of an infection, the infection may be contagious. Treatment is directed at the cause of the confusion. All medications have possible side effects. For example, antibiotics may cause allergic reactions or stomach upset.
Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia .
In many cases, confusion goes away when the cause is treated. In other cases, confusion may be a sign of serious disease. Some causes of confusion, for example, stroke and Alzheimer's disease , may cause permanent brain damage and problems with brain function. A confused person should not be left alone. Other monitoring depends on the underlying cause.