Acquired heart disease is a condition that develops after birth, often from infections or chronic illnesses, affecting the heart’s structure or function in ways that demand vigilance for both spiritual and physical well-being. 

“I faced this reality when my young grandson, just 7, suddenly fell ill with a fever that lingered far too long. As his energy waned and his chest ached, doctors diagnosed an acquired heart condition triggered by a viral infection. My heart ached too—not just physically from worry, but spiritually, questioning why such trials befall the innocent”, Miriam said.

At Eyole Heart Nurture, where we cherish both spiritual and physical heart health, I found solace and strength. This is my story, and I invite you to take our free heart test at eyoleheartnurture.com to safeguard your loved ones’ hearts today.

Causes of Acquired Heart Disease

Acquired heart conditions are issues with your child’s heart that develop after birth, often caused by bacterial or viral infections, chronic diseases, or even certain medications that impact the body. As OHSU explains, “They can be the result of chronic diseases or medications that affect other areas of the body.” In children, these are much rarer than in adults, and unlike adult coronary artery disease, where vessels narrow, they may or may not involve the coronary arteries 

Symptoms of Acquired Heart Disease

“We first noticed his persistent fever and joint pain, but soon chest discomfort and shortness of breath emerged,” Miriam adds. In children, symptoms vary by type: Kawasaki may bring rashes and swollen hands; myocarditis often follows a viral illness with fatigue and irregular heartbeat; cardiomyopathy can cause swelling and breathlessness; rheumatic heart disease leads to fever and heart murmurs. 

Isaiah 41:10 assures us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

Diagnosis for Acquired Heart Disease

Diagnosis involves blood tests, an echocardiogram, and ECG to assess heart function. For acquired conditions, doctors look for inflammation or damage post-infection. OHSU emphasizes that acquired heart conditions are issues with your child’s heart that develop after birth, often requiring these tools to confirm. This process, though anxious, brought clarity to Miriam, as she found peace in Psalm 103:3: “who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases.”

Prevention of Acquired Heart Disease

Prevention focuses on prompt treatment of infections and vaccinations. Health experts note that acquired heart disease is much less common in children than in adults, but hygiene and medical care reduce risks. OHSU advises monitoring for symptoms post-illness. This proactive approach, paired with faith, echoes Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Next Steps

Miriam’s story highlights the importance of vigilance. Take our free heart test at eyoleheartnurture.com to protect your family’s hearts.

3 John 1:2 assures us: “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Acquired Heart Diseases? Acquired heart diseases are conditions developing after birth from infections or chronic illnesses, per OHSU.
2. Which of the Following Are Examples of Acquired Heart Disease? Examples include Kawasaki, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, and rheumatic heart disease, as listed by Britannica.
3. What Is the Difference Between Congenital and Acquired Heart Disease? Congenital is present at birth; acquired develops later from infections, per OHSU.
4. What Are the 4 Types of Cardiovascular Disease? In children, the four main acquired types are Kawasaki, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, and rheumatic heart disease (OHSU).
5. What Are the Types of Acquired Diseases? Types include those caused by infections or medications affecting the heart, as noted by Britannica.
6. How Does One Acquire Heart Disease? Through illnesses like viral infections or chronic diseases, per OHSU.
7. Can Stress Cause Heart Disease? Stress can contribute to acquired heart conditions by weakening immunity, leading to infections (Britannica).
8. What Are the Five Most Common Heart Diseases? Common acquired in children include the four types, plus valve issues from infections (OHSU).
9. Is Heart Disease Inherited or Acquired? Acquired develops post-birth; inherited is genetic, but some, like cardiomyopathy, can be both (Britannica).
10. What Are the Three Main Heart Diseases? Key acquired in children are myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, and rheumatic heart disease (OHSU).