Heart disease is distinguished from heart problems in the duration of the presenting condition, pathology of the condition and persistence of dysfunction created by the condition. The distinction of disease versus problem is broad, but can be divided into four main types: hereditary, physiological, deficiency and pathogenic. In terms of medical clarification, heart disease can result from any of the four types and include heart problems resulting in later disease if specific intervention is not implemented.
Duration and Type of Condition
Heart problems are singular events or result as symptoms of other conditions. Heart disease stems from progressive damage to the heart and endures for life. For instance, conditions such as enlarged heart or heart murmur are heart problems resulting from heart valve disruption or can be related to temporary stress on the body, notes MayoClinic.com. Conditions such as high blood pressure, anemia or protein buildup in the heart can cause an enlarged heart, which is treatable.
Murmurs occur when the heart valve does not close tightly and blood leaks backwards, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A murmur alone may not require any treatment and typically does not cause ongoing complications.
Controllable Risk Versus Unchangeable Factors
Risk factors, such as age, gender and heredity, are considered unchangeable. The American Heart Association identifies modifiable risk factors as those related to lifestyle choices such as smoking, diet and physical activity. Heart problems such as heart attack and arterial blockage from plaque are less likely to occur when living a healthier lifestyle. Heart disease, however, may occur as a result of unchangeable risk factors such as heredity and gender.
For instance, congenital heart disease is acquired from birth and genetic conditions, rather than as a result of poor nutrition habits. Heart attack can be a singular event and can occur again if modifiable risk factors are not changed. In the event of heart attack occurring repeatedly, cardiovascular disease risk increases because of frequent damage sustained by the heart.
Methods of Treatment
Once heart problems occur, treatment methods depend on the severity of the condition and may include temporary use of medications. Commonly used medications for heart problems include diuretics, beta blockers or anti-hypertensives. Surgery is an option for treating severe heart problems, though this is typically done to reduce the risk of developing heart disease or heart failure.
In regards to heart disease, MayoClinic.com notes longer-term treatments are necessary to control severe and ongoing symptoms. Invasive surgical procedures, such as implantation of a pacemaker to regulate heart rhythm, a heart transplant to replace a serious heart defect or a valve replacement, may become necessary to prolong life. Heart disease happens from extensive damage to the cardiovascular system, and treatment for heart disease focuses on maintaining quality of life with the condition versus preventing repeated occurrence of damage.
