What is the Difference Between Disease and Disorder?

The main difference between a disease and a disorder lies in their causes and manifestations.

A disease is a medical condition with an identifiable cause, characterized by a pathophysiological response to internal or external factors. It typically involves an involuntary physiological or biological illness that has some underlying cause. Examples of diseases include cardiovascular diseases, which can result in physical and emotional signs and symptoms, as well as pain, dysfunction, distress, social problems, or death.

A disorder, on the other hand, is a group of symptoms that disrupt normal body functions but do not have a known cause. It is defined as a disruption to regular bodily structure and function. Examples of disorders include arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats, which can be a disorder resulting from cardiovascular disease.

In summary, a disease is a medical condition with a specific cause and characteristic symptoms, while a disorder is a group of symptoms that disrupt normal body functions without a known cause.

Comparative Table: Disease vs Disorder

The difference between a disease and a disorder can be understood through their definitions and characteristics. Here is a table comparing the two:

In summary, a disease is a response to internal or external factors that affects the normal functioning of the body, while a disorder is a disruption to the regular bodily structure and function. Disorders can result from diseases and are often diagnosed and treated based on specific health-related causes.