Digoxin (Lanoxin), a prescription-only medication, treats heart failure and some irregular heart rhythms. Many factors can cause digoxin to rise to toxic levels, the most common being loss of potassium through vomiting, diarrhea or taking a diuretic (water pill) that strips potassium from the bloodstream. If you take digoxin, you should know the signs and symptoms of toxicity and tell your doctor if they occur.
Appetite and Digestion Changes
Loss of appetite is an early symptom of digoxin toxicity. Your stomach may feel full and uncomfortably distended. You may feel constipated and nauseous, and vomiting may follow.
Weakness and Confusion
Vague symptoms of fatigue or irritability can by caused by digoxin toxicity. Feeling unusually weak, tired or anxious can progress to feeling lightheaded, confused and lethargic.
Blurred, Yellowed Vision
Digoxin toxicity can cause blurred vision. Sometimes, dark objects appear to have halos around them, or everything may appear to be tinged with yellow.
Irregular Heartbeat
Digoxin toxicity can cause fatal heart arrhythmias. In most cases, the milder effects of toxicity appear well before affecting the heart. A heartbeat that changes from regular to irregular is a late sign of toxicity and can lead to death.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing: Critical Thinking for Collaborative Care: Fifth Edition"; Donna D. Ignatavicius, MS, RN,C and M. Linda Workman, PhD, RN, FAAN; 2006
- Mayo Clinic: Digoxin
- Medline Plus: Digoxin Oral
