Health Information
Classification of Heart Failure
Topic Overview
The following is a classification for Reference heart failure Opens New Window devised by the New York Heart Association (NYHA). It is important to be familiar with this classification, because it may be referred to during the course of your care.
| Class I |
People whose physical activity is not limited. Ordinary physical activity does not cause undue fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing, or chest pain. |
|---|---|
| Class II |
People who have some limitation on physical activity. They are comfortable at rest, but ordinary physical activity causes fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing, or chest pain. |
| Class III |
People who have a marked limitation on physical activity. They are comfortable at rest, but less-than-ordinary physical activity causes fatigue, heart palpitations, trouble breathing, or chest pain. |
| Class IV |
People who are unable to carry on any physical activity without discomfort. Symptoms may be present even at rest. If any physical activity is done, discomfort increases. |
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