The Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) is a common blood test that measures electrolyte, kidney function, and acid-base balance. It is a relatively simple and painless test that can provide valuable information about your overall health.
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What is a BMP?
The BMP measures eight different substances in your blood:
- Electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate are essential minerals that help regulate your body's fluid balance and nerve function.
- Kidney function: Creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are waste products that are filtered out of your blood by your kidneys. High levels of creatinine or BUN may indicate kidney problems.
- Blood sugar: Glucose is the main source of energy for your cells. High levels of glucose may indicate diabetes.
- Acid-base balance: Your body needs to maintain a healthy balance between acidity and alkalinity. The BMP measures bicarbonate, which helps regulate your body's acid-base balance.
Why is a BMP done?
A BMP may be ordered for a variety of reasons, including:
- To check for kidney problems
- To evaluate electrolyte levels
- To monitor diabetes
- To check for acid-base imbalances
- To assess overall health
What to expect during a BMP
A BMP is a simple blood test that usually takes less than 10 minutes to complete. A small amount of blood will be drawn from your arm, and the sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
How to prepare for a BMP
There is no special preparation required for a BMP. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Some medications can interfere with the results of the test.
What do the BMP results mean?
The results of your BMP will be interpreted by your doctor. The normal ranges for the different substances measured in the BMP will vary depending on your age, sex, and other factors.
Abnormal BMP results may indicate a variety of conditions, including:
- Kidney problems
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Diabetes
- Acid-base imbalances
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