Classification
Of Heart Disease
Based on the results of the diagnostic tests performed,
doctors usually classify a patient’s heart condition
based on how severe his symptoms are. The most commonly
used classification system in this respect is the New
York Heart Association’s Functional Classification,
which places patients into one of four categories depending
on the extent to which their cardiac problems limit their
capacity for physical activity.
| Class |
Nature
of Symptons |
| |
 |
|
I |
No symptoms and no limitations on ordinary physical
activities
|
| |
|
|
II |
Mild symptoms, with slight limitations on ordinary
activities. Patient is comfortable at rest.
|
| |
|
|
III |
Symptoms are sufficiently serious to place marked
constraints on ordinary physical activities as well
as on less strenuous activities. Patient is comfortable
only at rest.
|
| |
|
|
IV |
Symptoms impose severe limitations on patient’s
daily activities. Patient experiences symptoms even
while at rest. |
|
|
|
