What is the function of the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification?

The New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification is primarily used to assess symptoms and functional capacity in patients with heart failure. This classification system categorizes patients into four classes based on their level of physical activity and the severity of symptoms experienced during various levels of exertion.

Class I indicates no limitations in physical activity, while Class II suggests slight limitations and symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath with moderate exertion. Class III denotes marked limitations in activity with symptoms during less than ordinary exertion, and Class IV represents the inability to carry on any physical activity without discomfort, even at rest.

By evaluating a patient’s functional capacity and the impact of symptoms on daily activities, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into the severity of heart failure. This information aids in the management of the condition, including monitoring disease progression and making informed decisions about treatment strategies. However, the classification itself does not provide information regarding the underlying causes of heart failure or direct treatment options; instead, it focuses on how heart failure affects a patient's everyday life.