How serious is a triple valve disease in a smoker?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 42 year old male. I smoke 30 to 40 cigarettes per day. I was admitted into a hospital last week with chest pain and underwent angiography, which showed triple vessel disease. ECG was showing normal rhythm with no evidence of acute ischemic changes. Troponins were mildly elevated at 21-30-22 ng/mL. Total cholesterol was 5.7 mmol/L and LDL was 3.8 mmol/L. I was discharged with medications (please see the attached pictures). My general practitioner told me to stay at home for at least a week. My main question is how serious does my angiography look? I was told by my doctor, that all three major vessels are affected. Does it need any surgery or can I stay just on medications? Can I continue working? I was told to stop smoking, but I cannot stop smoking immediately. Is e-cigarette good substitute or not? How long can I live with a disease like this?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

After seeing your reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity), yes, three of your major vessels are affected. But, the seriousness depends on the percentage of the block and how narrow the vessels have become, which I cannot make out by looking at the photo. The nature, location and percentage of the block will decide if it needs surgery or just medicines for heart block. You will be able to continue your job after taking rest for a week as suggested by your general physician. Stop smoking as it is the primary cause of your illness. E-cigarettes are not a better substitute for smoking. Try using nicotine chewing gum. With the right treatment and medication, you can expect a normal life expectancy.

How serious is a triple valve disease in a smoker?

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Company

Customer Care

Get iCliniq