Severity of CHF

• Severity of Heart Failure:

  • the severity of heart failure is based on symptomology rather than just ejection fraction, but ejection fraction remains a consideration
• New York Heart Association Classification of Heart Failure Severity:

  • used to gauge severity based on reported patient symptoms:
  • class 1 (asymptomatic)
  • no symptoms and can perform daily activities without feeling tired or short of breath
  • class 2 (mild symptoms)
  • you have a slight limitation of activity, with shortness of breath and fatigue with moderate exertion (e.g. walking upstairs quickly)
  • class 3 (moderate symptoms)
  • you have a marked limitation of activity with shortness of breath and fatigue on minimal exertion (e.g. walking upstairs slowly)
  • class 4 (severe symptoms)
  • you are unable to do any physical activity without discomfort and experience some symptoms at rest