Agitation is an unpleasant state of extreme arousal, increased tension, and irritability.

Extreme agitation can lead to confusion, hyperactivity, and hostility. Agitation can come on suddenly or over time. It can last for just a few minutes, or for weeks and even months. Pain, stress, and fever can all increase agitation.

Agitation by itself may not be a sign of a health problem. However, if other symptoms occur, it can be a sign of disease.

When agitation lasts for hours and there is changed awareness (altered consciousness), doctors often call this "delirium." Usually this has a medical cause such as alcohol withdrawal or an infection (in elderly adults). Older adults often have delirium while hospitalized.

Causes of agitation include:

• Alcohol withdrawal
• Nicotine withdrawal
• Cocaine withdrawal
• Opiate withdrawal
• Caffeine
• Cocaine, hallucinogenic drugs, ephedrine
• Theophylline or other medicines
• Vitamin B6 deficiency
• Hyperthyroidism
• Medical tests that involve injecting a "contrast medium" into the patient

Agitation can be associated with anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

A calm environment, plenty of sleep, adequate lighting, and stress-reducing measures can help reduce agitation. Don't restrain an overly-agitated person if possible, since this usually worsens the problem.

Communicating your feelings is important.