Limbic 365A Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) is a blood test that measures different components of your blood to provide information about your body’s metabolism and organ function. It is a commonly ordered test that can help diagnose and monitor various health conditions. In this article, we will explain what a BMP test is, what it measures, how it is done, and what the results mean.
What is a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)?
A BMP is a blood test that measures the levels of several substances in your blood, including glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate. These substances are important for various functions in the body, such as regulating fluid balance, maintaining proper pH levels, and producing energy.
What does a BMP measure?
A BMP measures the following substances in your blood:
Glucose: Glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells. High levels of glucose in the blood can indicate diabetes, while low levels can indicate hypoglycemia.
Calcium: Calcium is important for bone health and muscle function. High or low levels of calcium can indicate various health conditions, including kidney disease, thyroid problems, and certain cancers.
Sodium: Sodium is important for regulating fluid balance in the body. High or low levels of sodium can indicate various health conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, and heart failure.
Potassium: Potassium is important for muscle function and maintaining proper fluid balance. High or low levels of potassium can indicate various health conditions, including kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetes.
Chloride: Chloride is important for regulating fluid balance in the body. High or low levels of chloride can indicate various health conditions, including kidney disease, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Bicarbonate: Bicarbonate is important for maintaining proper pH levels in the blood. High or low levels of bicarbonate can indicate various health conditions, including kidney disease, respiratory problems, and metabolic acidosis.
How is a BMP done?
A BMP is a simple blood test that is usually done in a laboratory or hospital setting. A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to collect a sample of your blood. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results of a BMP mean?
The results of a BMP can help diagnose and monitor various health conditions. The normal range for each substance measured in a BMP is as follows:
| Substance | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Glucose | 70-99 mg/dL |
| Calcium | 8.5-10.5 mg/dL |
| Sodium | 135-145 mmol/L |
| Potassium | 3.5-5.0 mmol/L |
| Chloride | 98-106 mmol/L |
| Bicarbonate | 22-28 mmol/L |
If the results of a BMP are outside the normal range, it may indicate a health problem that requires further testing or treatment. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results of your BMP in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Is fasting required for a BMP?
Fasting is not usually required for a BMP, but it is best to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding fasting or any other preparation for the test.
How often should a BMP be done?
The frequency of BMP tests depends on your health condition and medical history. Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need to have a BMP test.
What are the risks of a BMP?
The risks of a BMP are minimal, but may include bleeding, infection, or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted.
