How does digitalis affect the T wave?

How does digitalis affect the T wave?

• A. Peaked
• B. Flat
• C. Inverted
• D. No change

Answer: (C)

Digitalis, a medication derived from the leaves of the foxglove plant, is commonly used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. One of the unique effects of digitalis on the electrocardiogram (ECG) is its influence on the T wave. When digitalis is present in therapeutic doses, it can cause the T wave to appear inverted. This inversion is believed to result from alterations in the cardiac repolarization process, influenced by changes in intracellular ion concentrations, particularly calcium. Digitalis increases the force of cardiac contractions (positive inotropic effect) and can also lead to changes in the electrical conduction through the heart, which is reflected in the T wave morphology. Inverted T waves can be an important diagnostic clue in identifying digitalis toxicity or therapeutic effects. Recognizing this change is crucial for healthcare providers as it helps in monitoring patients who are on digitalis therapy.

Digitalis, a medication derived from the leaves of the foxglove plant, is commonly used to treat heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. One of the unique effects of digitalis on the electrocardiogram (ECG) is its influence on the T wave.

When digitalis is present in therapeutic doses, it can cause the T wave to appear inverted. This inversion is believed to result from alterations in the cardiac repolarization process, influenced by changes in intracellular ion concentrations, particularly calcium. Digitalis increases the force of cardiac contractions (positive inotropic effect) and can also lead to changes in the electrical conduction through the heart, which is reflected in the T wave morphology.

Inverted T waves can be an important diagnostic clue in identifying digitalis toxicity or therapeutic effects. Recognizing this change is crucial for healthcare providers as it helps in monitoring patients who are on digitalis therapy.