What is an early sign of digoxin toxicity?

What is an early sign of digoxin toxicity?

• A. GI disturbances
• B. Visual changes
• C. GI disturbances and visual changes
• D. Chest pain

Answer: (C)

Digoxin toxicity often shows up early with effects outside the heart, particularly in the gut and vision. The drug has a narrow therapeutic window, so even small increases in level can cause noticeable symptoms. Early signs typically include GI disturbances—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain—and visual or CNS changes, especially blurred vision or seeing yellow or green halos around objects. Because both types of symptoms can appear early, a choice that includes both GI disturbances and visual changes best reflects the initial presentation. Chest pain is not an typical early sign of digoxin toxicity and would usually point to other cardiac issues. If these signs occur, hold the medication and contact the provider to assess digoxin level and potassium, and monitor for arrhythmias.

Digoxin toxicity often shows up early with effects outside the heart, particularly in the gut and vision. The drug has a narrow therapeutic window, so even small increases in level can cause noticeable symptoms. Early signs typically include GI disturbances—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain—and visual or CNS changes, especially blurred vision or seeing yellow or green halos around objects. Because both types of symptoms can appear early, a choice that includes both GI disturbances and visual changes best reflects the initial presentation. Chest pain is not an typical early sign of digoxin toxicity and would usually point to other cardiac issues. If these signs occur, hold the medication and contact the provider to assess digoxin level and potassium, and monitor for arrhythmias.