BNP Accuracy
BNP tests are usually 98 percent accurate. They are highly effective in determining if the cause of elevated BNP levels is heart failure.
According to studies, people who engage in regular exercise may experience high levels of BNP. Stress can also increase the blood levels of hormone cortisol, which may also increase BNP levels.
Doctors usually recommend the following tests to confirm if a patient has heart failure:
- Cardiac MRI
- Full physical examination
- Complete blood count (CBC) blood test
- Cardiac catheterization
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Chest X-ray
- Echocardiogram [1]