Question

What abnormal labs might you expect to see in someone with heart failure?

Answer 1

Ans)

There are a number of blood tests that can be done to rule out other causes of heart symptoms, and to measure different levels within the body that can affect the heart. You may also get blood tests done if you begin a new heart medicine.

The most common are:

Full Blood count (FBC) - this test measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It also measures the haemoglobin (oxygen carrying component of red blood cells).
Urea and Electrolytes (Us and Es) - urea levels help to monitor how the kidneys are working. Electrolytes help to stabilise the heart rhythm.
Glucose - this test measures the level of sugar in the blood.
Liver and thyroid function - these tests measure liver function and the thyroid function.
Troponin blood test - troponin is a protein which is released into the blood stream when the heart muscle is damaged. The troponin level provides a quick and accurate measure of any heart muscle damage. It’s used to help in the assessment following suspected heart attack. It may be taken on admission to hospital and/or 12 hours from the onset of symptoms.
Cholesterol level and lipid profile.
Natriuretic peptides - an indicator of heart failure.

Any deterioration in the normal values posses an indication of heart failure.