Specifically, the test measures levels of the protein BNP that is made in the heart and blood vessels. Blood is obtained via a venous or arterial puncture and send to the lab for analysis. Patients will often experience somesymptoms of heart failurethat would prompt a BNP level. Win McNamee / Staff : Getty Images NT-proBNP is a non-active prohormone that is released in the same way BNP is. The NT-proBNP level will also be increased if there are indications of new-onset or worsening heart failure....

Many of these patients will be admitted to a cardiac care unit (CCU). This article will explain why you might need to be admitted to a CCU. What Is a CCU? Visoot Uthairam / Getty Images Patients in the CCU usually have serious, acute, and/or unstable cardiac conditions. They can have changes in their condition that come on very fast and without warning. People in the CCU need to be looked after constantly....

All told, there are around 32,800 practicing cardiologists in the United States. This article covers the different types of cardiologists and the specialties they have. It also discusses cardiology tests and treatment as well as what to expect at a cardiology appointment. DjelicS / Getty Images Cardiologists are not surgeons. Those who perform surgery are calledcardiothoracicsurgeons and undergo a surgical, rather than internal medicine or pediatric, residency. Adult Cardiologist The adult cardiologist only sees adult patients....

However, a diet primarily comprised of meat and animal-based foods comes with risks. d3sign / Getty Images Besides Protein, What Are the Benefits of the Carnivore Diet? There is limited research on the carnivore diet. d3sign / Getty Images The most significant study to date was conducted in 2021 by Harvard researchers. They interviewed 2,029 people who were on the diet for at least six months. The diet’s primary goal is weight loss by consuming minimal daily carbohydrates....

Although you might not notice a cavity forming at first, it can eventually cause pain. In more serious cases, a cavity can result in a dental procedure called aroot canal. Cavities are acommon dental problem. Causes Teeth are covered in a relatively thick layer of enamel, a protective coating. Since enamel isn’t living, it’s not able to repair itself. That’s problematic, since tooth enamel is constantly under attack. Over time, that damage can lead to the formation of a cavity....

wera Rodsawang / Getty Images What Is the Celiac Plexus? The celiacplexusis a cluster ofnerveslocated in the upper abdomen. The celiac plexus is located behind thepancreas, near the body’s largest blood vessel, theaorta. wera Rodsawang / Getty Images This in turn can help reduce pain. These steps may include the following. However, do not stop taking any medications unless your healthcare provider tells you to. It’s possible you will need to change your insulin dose....

A CHT specializes in the treatment of upper extremity injuries and conditions. CHTs work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and inpatient rehabilitation centers. This article discusses the conditions that are treated by CHTs, the training required, and the certification process. SDI Productions / Getty Images There are around 6,600 CHTs in the United States and just over 7,000 worldwide. Of these, 87% are occupational therapists, while only 12% are physical therapists....

Purpose of Procedure A cervical biopsy is important for thedetection of cancerorprecancerous cells. DES was prescribed from 1938 until 1971 to prevent miscarriage, premature labor, and related complications. Once a cervical biopsy has been ordered, it is important to know which jot down you will have. Spike Walker / The Image Bank / Getty Images In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend acervical cerclagewhere the cervix is sewn closed....

This article discusses chemical imbalances in the brain, some of their symptoms, and what can cause them. It also explores the various treatments for chemical imbalances. Verywell / Michela Buttignol What Is a Chemical Imbalance? Verywell / Michela Buttignol These chemical imbalances are often linked to health conditions. Too much or too little of these substances anywhere in the body is considered a chemical imbalance. It can reflect the effects of the underlying primary condition....

Often, chest infections are self-limiting and dont require medical treatment. However, its possible for an infection to become severe. While tuberculosis is common worldwide, its not as common in the United States. Virojt Changyencham / Getty Images Risk factors include: Most people who develop acute bronchitis dont need medical intervention. Mycoplasma pneumonia, orwalking pneumonia, is the mildest form of this throw in of infection. It often presents similarly to the common cold....

When that happens, organs in your body dont get enough oxygen to function properly. People with this condition can sometimes experience CHF exacerbations, which are characterized by worsening symptoms. People with CHF can successfully manage their condition with medications andlifestyle changes. LaylaBird / Getty Images Your doctor may order blood tests to check your electrolytes, renal function, and liver function. A chestX-raymay be taken if pneumonia is suspected. Anechocardiogramwill evaluate how much blood your heart is pumping throughout your body....

Chlamydiais a sexually transmitted infection (STI) triggered by bacteria. It is estimated that 1 in 5 people in the United States has an STI. Chlamydia spreads through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Tetra Images / Getty Images Most people with chlamydia don’t show symptoms, but the infection can cause serious complications if left untreated. Regular screening can help catch asymptomatic cases of chlamydia. Chlamydia can usually be cured with antibiotics....

Chloride is anelectrolyte, which is a mineral that carries an electrical charge when dissolved in water. Chloride supports the balance of body fluids inside and outside your cells. Factors such asvomiting,dehydration, or medical issues like kidney disease can affect chloride levels. Westend61 / Getty Images This article describes chloride blood test uses, techniques, and results. It includes everything you’re gonna wanna know about this test. Westend61 / Getty Images What Is a Chloride Blood Test Used For?...