Uses
A BNP test is popularly used to measure BNP levels in the blood. A high level of the hormone in the blood is a sign of heart failure. If you experience certain symptoms of heart failure like shortness of breath, your healthcare provider may recommend the test. The chances of preventing health complications and getting effective treatment for heart failure [2] increases when the condition is diagnosed early.
If you experience these symptoms, your doctor may recommend a BNP blood test:
- Nausea [3] or having no appetite
- Trouble breathing (dyspnea) [4]
- Abnormal weight gain without any change in diet or activity
- Feeling exhausted or weak for no apparent reason
- Abnormally high or irregular heart rate [5]
- Coughing a lot, and releasing white or pink phlegm
- Inability to concentrate or remain alert
A BNP test is also used to detect heart failure. Diseases related to the kidney or lung and obesity [6] can also lead to increased BNP levels.