NYHA Class
Also written as: NYHA — New York Heart Association Class
Functional classification system for heart failure symptoms ranging from I to IV.
Full Definition
The New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification system categorizes heart failure patients based on their functional limitations and symptoms. Class I indicates no limitation of physical activity, Class II shows slight limitation with ordinary activity, Class III demonstrates marked limitation with less than ordinary activity, and Class IV represents inability to perform any physical activity without discomfort and symptoms at rest. This classification is essential for prognosis, treatment decisions, and clinical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always use Roman numerals (I-IV) and capitalize NYHA when abbreviated.
In Context
- "The patient was classified as NYHA Class III due to marked limitation during ordinary activities." — Clinical assessment
- "Improvement from NYHA Class IV to Class II indicated successful treatment response." — Progress note