Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC) Practice Exam

Which symptom might indicate digoxin toxicity?

1. Elevated blood pressure

2. Freezing sensation

3. Nausea and vomiting

4. Muscle spasms

The correct answer is: Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with digoxin toxicity and reflect how the drug affects the gastrointestinal system. Digoxin, a cardiac glycoside used primarily in conditions like heart failure and arrhythmias, can cause toxicity if blood levels become too high. The mechanism behind these symptoms can be attributed to the effect of digoxin on the autonomic nervous system, specifically in how it increases vagal tone, which can hinder digestive processes and lead to nausea and vomiting. Recognizing these symptoms is critical in clinical practice, as they indicate that the digoxin dose may need to be adjusted or that the patient requires close monitoring. It's essential for healthcare providers to be aware of this aspect of digoxin therapy to prevent severe complications. Other symptoms of digoxin toxicity can include visual disturbances (such as yellow-green halos), bradycardia, and confusion, which further underline the importance of monitoring the therapeutic levels of this medication. While other symptoms like freezing sensations or muscle spasms can arise from various medical conditions, they are not specific indicators of digoxin toxicity. Elevated blood pressure is typically not associated with digoxin toxicity either.