Classification of heart failure

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Classification of heart failure

The following is a classification for heart failure 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.

**Classification of heart failure symptoms**
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.

Credits

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Author	Robin Parks, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Marianne Flagg
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Associate Editor	Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
Last Updated	August 25, 2008

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Last updated:	August 25, 2008
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology
Editors:	Marianne Flagg, Terrina Vail

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