who functional class pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a severe chronic condition categorized into four classes by the World Health Organization (WHO), ranging from Class I to Class IV, which correspond to varying degrees of disease severity. This classification aids physicians in evaluating the patient’s condition, devising appropriate treatment plans, and tracking disease progression.

Class I pulmonary arterial hypertension patients experience minimal discomfort in daily life, with an activity level comparable to healthy individuals. These patients may incidentally discover their condition during routine medical check-ups. Class II patients might experience mild dyspnea or fatigue during physical exertion, but these symptoms typically do not disrupt their daily activities. Class III patients, however, exhibit significant dyspnea and fatigue even with mild physical exertion, potentially limiting their activities. Lastly, Class IV patients suffer from severe dyspnea and fatigue at rest, severely impacting their quality of life and necessitating urgent medical intervention.

For individuals with pulmonary arterial hypertension, timely medical consultation and professional treatment are essential. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including smoking cessation, moderate alcohol consumption, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, can assist in managing the disease. Throughout treatment, patients should adhere to their physician's advice and engage in regular follow-ups to facilitate timely adjustments to their treatment regimen.