What are the manifestations of digitalis toxicity?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

The main symptoms of digitalis toxicity include gastrointestinal reactions, arrhythmias, neurological symptoms, visual disturbances, and electrolyte imbalances. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, strictly adhere to prescribed medication instructions, and regularly monitor heart rate, rhythm, and electrolyte levels. Include potassium-rich foods in the diet, such as bananas and spinach.

1. Gastrointestinal Reactions

Digitalis drugs can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, easily causing discomfort when toxicity occurs. Patients commonly experience nausea and vomiting, with vomitus typically consisting of gastric contents. Other possible symptoms include loss of appetite, abdominal distension, and diarrhea, which may worsen after eating.

2. Arrhythmias

Excessive digitalis interferes with the electrophysiological activity of myocardial cells, leading to abnormal heart rhythms. Common manifestations include ventricular premature beats and atrioventricular block. Patients may feel palpitations and chest tightness; in severe cases, dizziness, visual darkening (transient vision loss), or even syncope can occur.

3. Neurological Symptoms

The drug affects central nervous system function, resulting in mental and neurological abnormalities during toxicity. Patients may experience headache and dizziness, as well as restlessness, insomnia, and in some individuals, memory decline and confusion.

4. Visual Disturbances

The drug impacts the visual conduction pathways, causing visual dysfunction. A classic sign is xanthopsia (yellow vision) or chloropsia (green vision), where objects appear yellowish or greenish. Other symptoms may include blurred vision and diplopia (double vision).

5. Electrolyte Imbalance

Digitalis toxicity is often accompanied by hypokalemia due to increased renal potassium excretion induced by the drug. Patients may develop numbness and weakness in limbs; severe cases can lead to muscle cramps and an increased risk of worsening arrhythmias.

In daily life, strictly follow medical instructions for medication use and regularly monitor heart rate, rhythm, and electrolyte levels. Include potassium-rich foods such as bananas and spinach in the diet. Discontinue the drug immediately and seek medical attention if any suspected symptoms arise—never adjust the dosage on your own.

View All

What is the alternative name for Mexiletine?

There is no such term as "Meixinlü"; it should refer to mexiletine, also known as慢心律 (Manxinlü) or 脉律定 (Mailüding). Mexiletine is a class Ib antiarrhythmic drug, commercially named Manxinlü or Mailüding, primarily used for ventricular premature contractions and ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and arrhythmias caused by acute myocardial infarction or digitalis. It can be taken orally for long-term treatment.