Bnp - B- Type Natriuretic Peptide

Apart from having obvious symptoms and clinical manifestations in the body, heart failure also needs some tests to detect the condition. A BNP test is an accurate diagnostic method to determine the levels of B-type natriuretic peptides.

The test is known to spot heart failure 80% of the time and allows the doctor to work on the treatment protocol.

A BNP blood test is preferable because, during heart failure, only two types of protein levels increase in the system. These two are – B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal-pro-BNP (NT-pro-BNP).

The natriuretic peptide test looks for an increase in the levels of these proteins because it worsens the condition during heart failure. Similarly, the test can monitor a gradual decrease in the group to ensure that treatment works for the patient.

A BNP blood test is necessary because it helps the doctor understand a patient’s other symptoms. You can get tested for one or both proteins depending on the condition.

Apollo 24|7 offers a natriuretic peptide test to confirm or rule out the condition and monitor the treatment’s effect. Hence, below is a list of people who are at risk of suffering from congestive heart failure and must take a BNP test: 

• Patient with coronary artery disease and prolonged blockage in the arteries
• Individuals with a history of heart attack and have a possibility of the scarred area
• People who have damaged their heart muscle due to infection, drug abuse, or alcohol
• Anybody with other health conditions that might overload the cardiac system, such as diabetes, thyroid, valve disease, and kidney disorders

Apart from this, you can also notice the symptoms of heart failure and take a BNP blood test to stay updated about your cardiac health: 

• Congestion in the lungs 
• Frequent dry coughing and wheezing
• Fluid and water retention in the body causing swelling in ankles, legs, and abdomen
• Dizziness, weakness, and fatigue in the body 
• Neurological confusion to loss of blood flow in the brain
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

The BNP test detects the natriuretic peptide that is produced in the heart. Usually, the levels of BNP and NT-pro-BNP are low in the bloodstream. An increase in their levels indicates that your heart may not pump the blood properly.

One of the significant benefits of the natriuretic peptide test is its ability to rule out other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms in your body. This assists your healthcare provider in deciding the course of treatment and monitoring the recovery phase.

Apart from a BNP test, other factors like history of heart problems, recent lifestyle changes, and surgeries might help diagnose heart failure. You might also have to cut down the habits like smoking, use of illegal drugs, and consumption of unhealthy food.