AEMCA Practice Exam

What is a dangerous symptom associated with digitalis toxicity?

1. Increased appetite

2. Severe headache

3. Seeing halos around objects

4. Persistent cough

The correct answer is: Seeing halos around objects

Seeing halos around objects is a dangerous symptom associated with digitalis toxicity because it indicates a disruption in visual perception that can result from elevated levels of digoxin in the body. This phenomenon often occurs due to the effect of digitalis on the electrical charges and conduction pathways within cardiac tissues, as well as its impact on the central nervous system. These visual disturbances can be an early sign of toxicity and may coincide with more severe cardiac arrhythmias, which are also serious complications of digitalis toxicity. Recognizing visual symptoms like seeing halos is crucial for prompt medical intervention, as they signal that the medication may be affecting not just cardiac function but also neurological processes. This understanding is essential for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and appropriate management of digitalis therapy. The other symptoms listed, such as increased appetite, severe headache, and persistent cough, do not have the same immediate or dangerous implications in the context of digitalis toxicity.