NTproBNP blood test

[Catlady56]

I had the above blood test on 27th October. Was finally told the results today via snail mail. BNP is showing as 1278. I'm assuming this confirms heart failure? Cardiac nurse is asking GP to prescribe me Furosemide 40mg for three days then 20mg daily after. I have constant afib following a massive pulmonary embolism eighteen months ago. One failed cardioversion. I'm 64 and in Wales. On Rivaroxaban 20mg for life, Bisoprolol 2.5mg twice a day and Amlodipine 5mg. Breathlessness has become worse gradually over time since spring this year. Was seen in Cardiac Clinic in October and will be seen again "in next few weeks" - January 2021. Waiting for 48 hour heart monitor to be arranged, plus an echocardiogram. U & E's and FBC shown as "normal" whatever that means. Are the water tablets likely to improve things? Thanks for any replies.

[GracieOS]

Hiya, I can't answer your questions specifically, perhaps ring the nurse here on Monday? I do know this blood test is relatively new. I had one which in theory indicated my heart failure had worsened but when I had an echocardiogram it showed the opposite. The test is a biomarker or indicator thats all.

[Catlady56 in reply to GracieOS]

Thank you for that

[Catlady56]

Thank you for that. First time I've had this blood test. Cardiologist does know as does GP now. I am waiting for an Echo and 48 hour monitoring. This is all being done on outpatient basis.

[Elle123456]

I have had this blood test a few times to check how my heart is performing. I was up at over 1000 but now at 542 last month. I can’t comment about Furosemide but I did get put on a drug called Entresto by cardiologist which improved my heart function

[Catlady56 in reply to Elle123456]

That's good to know. I'm glad you are feeling some improvement

[Mickymoo]

My first bnp test last September was 1007. I was carrying a little fluid in my ankles. Was put on furusomide , which got rid of the swollen ankles. My bnp went down to 149. Since then it has fluctuated and at present is sitting at 549. The furusomide definitely helps to lower the bnp especially if carrying any fluid x

[Catlady56 in reply to Mickymoo]

Ok, that's good to know. My feet, ankles and lower legs have been getting more swollen, and I'm more breathless, so I'm hoping that furosemide will help with that.

[stemie]

I have had 4 BNP tests in the last 3 years since being diagnosed with AF and HF. I am on 40mgpd Furosemide. My GP says this is to reduce water retention which is a common symptom of HF. In theory this means one’s heart doesn’t have to work as hard to lift blood (and water) back to your lungs and you should become less breathless.

I understand that BNP is an indicator of the amount of strain your heart is under. I can’t find any info on the internet that actually correlates the magnitude of BNP with blood pressure or other medical condition. My BNP results range from 2000 to over 4000 and it seems that anaemia is a major factor in my case.

I hope you get some benefit from the Furosemide and the follow ups you mention.

[Love101cats in reply to stemie]

I was interested in your comment about anaemia and bnp. Ive only had one bnp a couple of years ago and the result was over 4500. No explanation was given other than it indicates heart failure. When I asked for a repeat I was told they only do it once. Its quite strange because it wasn't at the onset of h.f. but after sometime. What was the point? As I dont see a consultant ive no one to ask. Im due an appointment with h.f. nurses and they are super helpful but they seem lost for words when I ask the why questions. I hope you and others post follow up information. It might help.

[Catlady56 in reply to stemie]

Thank you for that. I am hopeful that new meds will help me.

[NannyMcPhee52]

I'd check back with doctor on your breathlessness and drugs you're taking.

Maybe ask about inhaler.

[Pommel]

Hi catlady, it sounds like you are in line to have your medication reviewed which is great. There are other drugs that help with Heart failure, but everyone has a slightly different set of issues, like your AF and history of embolism. I'm in Wales and have heart failure but have never had a BNP test so can't help on that. I'd have thought the furosemide will help with the breathlessness while you wait for the tests but like others say, get back in touch with them if it doesn't! Take care

[Catlady56 in reply to Pommel]

Thanks for that. It's all a waiting game isn't it. I attend cardiology outpatients in Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth

[Pommel]

I'm in Carmarthenshire but signed off from the hospital now back to GP. I hope you start feeling back to normal soon!

[Catlady56 in reply to Pommel]

Thank you. You too