Submitted by Dr T on March 24, 2013 – 9:23am
Question:
I am a 43 year old male who had three heart attacks. One at age 34,35, and 36. I have five total stents due to the cholesterol build up. Six years later, I have angina induced by physical activity and stress. I did a stress test (treadmill) and angina cut it short. I did a catheterization with no significant obstructions observed. Any idea what the problem is?
Hi Joel,
I am not convinced your stress test results are accurate, and probably should be repeated; possibly with a different type, such as a stress echo or nuclear study, possibly with different cardiologists. Recurrent Coronary Artery Disease should be excluded before looking at other causes of chest pain. It will not be the first time that stent failure or disease in other locations is missed!
Even if again negative, you are obviously at a high risk for progressive Coronary Artery Disease. Patients in your situation are usually best treated with a coronary artery bypass procedure when further treatment become necessary.
Meanwhile you should concentrate on heart healthy living.
Hope this helps,