What is the best indicator for diagnosing Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?

The best indicator for diagnosing Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP). This peptide is released by the ventricles of the heart in response to excessive stretching of heart muscle cells, which occurs in conditions of volume overload commonly seen in heart failure. Elevated levels of BNP in the blood can help confirm the diagnosis of CHF and distinguish it from other causes of shortness of breath.

For context, while blood pressure can provide insights into cardiac function, it is not specific to CHF and can be normal or vary depending on other factors. Elevated levels of Atrial Natriuretic Factor (ANF) also indicate heart strain, but BNP is more widely recognized as a standard marker for diagnosing CHF. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and other unrelated conditions do not serve as indicators for CHF. Thus, the measurement of BNP is crucial for an accurate and timely diagnosis of Congestive Heart Failure.