What is the NYHA classification used for?

The New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification is specifically designed to assess the severity of heart failure by categorizing patients based on their symptoms and physical activity limitations. This classification system ranges from Class I, indicating no limitation of physical activity and no symptoms, to Class IV, where patients experience symptoms at rest and have difficulty in any physical activity. By using this classification, healthcare providers can better understand the functional status of patients with heart failure, tailor treatment plans accordingly, and monitor changes in their condition over time. The emphasis on symptoms related to physical activity makes it a crucial tool in managing heart failure effectively.