Bnp (brain natriuretic peptide) & bull; hello healthy

x

Definition

What is BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a test that measures the amount of the hormone BNP in the blood. BNP is generated by the heart and shows how well your heart is working. Generally, only a small amount of BNP can be found in your blood. However, if your heart is working harder than usual for a long period of time, for example in the case of heart failure, the heart will release more BNP and increase the level of BNP in the blood. BNP levels may decrease when heart failure treatment works.

When should I take brain natriuretic peptide?

BNP or the NT-proBNP test can be carried out in the following situations:

• in the doctor's office, when someone has symptoms that result from heart failure
• in the emergency room, when someone is critical or has symptoms that may be due to heart failure and the doctor needs to decide quickly whether the person has heart failure or other medical problems
• to monitor the effects of heart failure treatment

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before taking BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?

BNP levels can decrease if medications for heart failure are working. But BNP levels may remain above normal even when treatment for heart failure is working well. Your doctor will do a physical exam and other tests, along with your BNP levels, to make sure your medication is working.

Process

What should I do before taking BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?

You may be asked not to eat or drink anything except mineral water for 8 to 12 hours before taking the BNP test. Your doctor will tell you to stop taking certain heart medicines before this test. Follow your doctor's instructions. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the importance of this test, the risks, the test process, or the benefits of this test result.

How is the BNP (brain natriuretic peptide) process?

During the BNP blood test, a small amount of blood will be drawn and placed on a machine that will detect BNP and NT-pro-BNP levels. This test takes about 15 minutes. In some places, a blood sample needs to be sent to a laboratory for examination.

What should I do after taking BNP (brain natriuretic peptide)?

You can return to normal activities right after the procedure is done. Your doctor will check your test results based on your health condition and other factors.

If you have questions related to this test process, please consult your doctor for a better understanding.

Explanation of the Test Results

What do my test results mean?

The normal values ​​listed here — called reference levels — are a guide only. This level varies from laboratory to laboratory, and your laboratory may use different normal levels. Your laboratory report results should also include what normal levels your laboratory is using.

• BNP levels below 100 pg / mL indicate the absence of a heart failure condition
• BNP levels 100-300 pg / mL indicate a condition of heart failure
• a BNP level of 300 pg / mL indicates mild heart failure
• BNP levels above 600 pg / mL indicate moderate heart failure
• BNP levels above 900 pg / mL indicate severe heart failure

High marks

High BNP values ​​in the blood:

• indicates an increase in the amount of fluid or high pressure inside the heart
• can be used to help determine the severity of heart failure
• may indicate a high risk of death for patients with heart failure
• can indicate premature heart failure in someone on kidney dialysis.

Depending on your chosen laboratory, the normal range of BNP may vary. Discuss any questions you have about your medical test results with your doctor.