How to interpret Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) blood test?
A Physician’s Review
Let’s break down the components of a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP):
- Sodium (Na)
Normal Range: 135–145 mEq/L
High: May suggest dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or Cushing’s syndrome.
Low: Could indicate fluid overload, heart failure, or certain adrenal gland disorders.
2. Potassium (K)
Normal Range: 3.5–5.0 mEq/L
High: Possible kidney dysfunction, medication effect, or Addison’s disease.
Low: May suggest diarrhea, vomiting, diuretic use, or aldosteronism.
3. Chloride (Cl)
Normal Range: 96–106 mEq/L
High: Often linked to dehydration or kidney disease.
Low: May be related to heart failure, excessive sweating, or medications.
4. Carbon Dioxide (CO2, bicarbonate)
Normal Range: 23–29 mEq/L
High: May indicate respiratory acidosis (compensated) or metabolic alkalosis. Respiratory compensation may involve hypoventilation to retain CO2 and neutralize the condition
