B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Blood Test

Also Known As

Brain Natriuretic Peptide Test, Natriuretic Peptide Test, N-Terminal Pro B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test, NT-proB-type Natriuretic Peptide Test

The Purpose of a BNP Blood Test

Your heart works hard pumping blood for healthy circulation throughout your body. Sometimes, though, it has to work too hard to pump blood properly, and that can be a sign of congestive heart failure.

When that happens, the heart produces high levels of substances called natriuretic peptides, specifically brain natriuretic peptides and N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptides. BNP blood work can measure those levels to help diagnose or monitor heart failure. This type of heart disease can be caused by factors such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or a prior heart attack.

What Does the BNP Lab Test Measure?

This test measures the level of natriuretic peptides your body is producing. This reading can help give you a clearer picture of your heart health.

Who Should Take a Blood Test for BNP?

This BNP lab is usually recommended for people who exhibit heart failure symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue
• Impaired breathing
• Chronic coughing or wheezing
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling in the lower half of the body

Once heart failure is diagnosed, this natriuretic peptide test may be used by your physician to track and monitor the progress of your treatment. This test can and should be used by adults of all ages, as heart failure isn’t limited to older people.

BNP Blood Test Preparation

No special preparation is required for a BNP lab test.

BNP Blood Work Results

A reading over 100 pg/mL indicates your body is producing too much BNP, and you could be experiencing heart failure. If your BNP levels are high, you may need to take other heart failure blood tests to help pinpoint a diagnosis. If you need help deciphering what your results mean, don’t worry–you can schedule a telehealth visit with one of our board-certified physicians.

Where Can I Get a BNP Test Near Me?

If you want to take control of your health, you need accurate data to make informed choices. Personalabs has partnered with Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics, so you can get high-quality testing at reputable facilities with more than 4,000 locations across the United States.

To get a BNP lab from Personalabs:

Step 1: Purchase the test online and download the corresponding lab order. (A doctor’s approval may not be necessary, depending on which state you live in.)

Step 2: Use our lab locator to find the location near you. Many facilities offer appointments and walk-in testing, so you can pick the most convenient option for you.

Step 3: Bring the BNP test order to the lab so you can have your blood drawn.

Step 4: Test results typically arrive in your secure, confidential Personalabs account within 2 to 10 business days. (Contact us if you need us to get a specific turnaround time from the lab, as it can vary by location.)

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