B-type natriuretic peptide is a substance secreted by the heart in response to cardiac effort. Elevated levels are used to diagnose and monitor heart failure, and distinguish it from other diseases. BNP also helps to lower blood pressure and salt content, and can be used to evaluate patients with shortness of breath and rule out […]
The BNP test measures levels of B-type natriuretic peptide in the blood, which increases as heart failure worsens. It is a minimally invasive and cost-effective diagnostic test, but other factors such as drug therapies, age, and kidney disease can cause elevated levels. A positive test result requires further follow-up and diagnostic testing. A BNP test […]
