how many years the valves work properly

hello frds,
this is suresh.last four years back i had a double valve replacement surgery.now iam happy with that.but the problem is my docter says dont take green leafs ang cali flower.i did n't understand why they advise like that.and another importent dout is some of my friends said the valves works only few years after the life span of the valves we change another valves.i can't understand whether we have to replace the valves after a span of time..if it is how much time is the good span for valves and when iam going for new valves......and moreover iam 25 years old only.my parents are settle my marrige.iam in confusuion,whether iam go through the marriage are else..plz tell the exact solutuon for all my theree  questions....

[Momto3]

Hi Suresh,

My guess is that you have at least 1 mechanical valve which requires you to take coumadin (warfarin).  If so, that would be the reason the doctor told you to watch your intake of green vegetables, though I'm not sure about the cauliflower.  The main thing I have learned is that you should try and eat the same amount of greens each day.  That way your PT will stabilize and the medication should not need to be adjusted too often.

Are you having periodic echocardiograms to keep an eye on the new valve?  Many people will only have 1 surgery, but it is dependent on a lot of factors (valve type, age, overall health, etc).  Mechanical valves tend to have a longer lifespan and that is why they are used more often for young people.  I am not a doctor, but I would say that it is likely that you will have another surgery someday.  However, that's a great question for your cardiologist.

As for your marriage, are you concerned because of your health?  Is there another reason you would not go ahead with your marriage plans?  If not, I hope you are happy and that the 2 of you have a long life together.