The body of Darren John Smyth, 47, of Martin Kinggett Gardens in Dagenham, was discovered on May 27.
An inquest opening at East London Coroner’s Court on Wednesday (July 30) heard Mr Smyth, born in Rush Green, had “suffered with drug and alcohol addiction for a number of years”.
But, said coroner’s officer Jean Smyth, he was believed to have “been sober for three years”.
Shortly before he died, she said, Mr Smyth reported “some mental health issues and also had some chest pain”.
“Sadly, Mr Smyth was found deceased at approximately 1am on the 27th of May 2025 at his home address,” she added.
A pathologist has since given his cause of death as acute ketoacidosis and cocaine toxicity, against a backdrop of ischemic heart disease.
Ketoacidosis is where the body produces excessive amounts of ketones, leading to dangerously high level of acid in the blood.
It is commonly associated with diabetes but other causes can include alcohol abuse or starvation.
“I’m satisfied on those facts this death occurred in circumstances requiring an inquest,” said coroner Nadia Persaud.
“The inquest will be opened and adjourned for further investigations to take place.
“From the family, I would like a biography – so information about Mr Smyth: his health leading up to his death, to include physical and mental health, and any use of drugs that the family are aware of.”
She also asked the family to share “any concerns surrounding his death”.
“At present, the family are the only interested persons,” said Mrs Persaud.
That is a legal status which entitles them to be represented by a lawyer, to view evidence ahead of the final inquest and to question any witnesses called to testify.
The final inquest was provisionally set for February.
