Manifestations of digitalis toxicity
Disease description:
My father was recently diagnosed with chronic heart failure, and his doctor prescribed digoxin. After taking it at home, he experienced some nausea. Is this a sign of toxicity? I would also like to know what other symptoms this condition may present.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Digitalis toxicity is a serious medical condition caused by excessive or improper use of the drug. When the blood concentration of digitalis exceeds therapeutic levels, a series of adverse reactions may occur:
1. Cardiac symptoms: These are the most severe manifestations of toxicity and may include various arrhythmias, such as ventricular premature beats, atrial fibrillation, and atrioventricular conduction block. Severe cases can lead to ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest.
2. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are common early signs of toxicity.
3. Visual disturbances: Patients may experience blurred vision, xanthopsia (yellow vision), or chloropsia (green vision), which result from digitalis' effects on the retina.
4. Neurological symptoms: Headache, fatigue, syncope, delirium, hallucinations, and changes in mental status may also occur.
5. Electrolyte imbalances: Digitalis toxicity can lead to abnormalities in electrolyte levels, such as potassium and calcium, which may further exacerbate cardiac complications.
During treatment, close monitoring of the patient's condition is essential, with timely adjustments to the treatment plan to alleviate suffering and reduce mortality risk.
