Experienced Sundowner's Syndrome After Major Surgeries. Should I Be Worried?

Brief Answer: Yes, but only when it is present. Detailed Answer: Hi, Welcome to Healthcare Magic! Sundowner's syndrome is just a kind of delirium and is common in the elderly after major surgeries. It occurs because of heavy dose of anaesthetic or because of electrolyte disturbances or because of the medications that one is on. Febrile illness and brain disease can also cause it. It is called sundowner's syndrome because the confusion and abnormal behavior worsen in the nighttime. It gradually improves when the probable cause is treated. In simple words, it is just a manifestation of an underlying pathology, but not an independent disease in itself. It is a cause for worry when one is suffering from it because it increases the risk of mortality. The elderly often have difficulty in coming out of it and sometimes it can last for months. But once you come out of it, then you need not worry about it. However, you have an increased risk of suffering from it again when you undergo any major surgery or have any major illness. I hope this clarifies things for you. Please feel free to ask if you need any other clarifications. Best wishes. Dr Preeti Parakh MD Psychiatry

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