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Early Symptoms of Digitalis Toxicity

Digitalis is used to treat congestive heart failure. It is synthesized from the foxglove plant. Digitalis forces the heart muscle to contract by lowering the levels of potassium in cells while raising the levels of sodium and calcium. This can cause electrolyte imbalances and heart dysrhythmias. Patients taking digitalis are usually carefully monitored.

  1. General Symptoms

    • Patients suffering from digitalis toxicity may feel generally fatigued, weak, sleepy or dizzy.

    Cardiopulmonary Symptoms

    • Fainting, shortness of breath and heart palpitations can occur.

    Gastrointestinal Symptoms

    • Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea may be signs of digitalis toxicity.

    Changes in Vision

    • Patients may have blurred or double vision, become overly sensitive to light, develop blind spots, see "halos" around objects, or have changes in color vision.

    Pain

    • Patients suffering from digitalis toxicity might have headaches, nerve pain and prickling, tingling or numbing sensations. Abdominal pain is a rare symptom.

    Brain and Central Nervous System

    • Patients may show confusion, agitation/irritability or delirium. Hallucinations are also possible.

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