When To Get A Strep Test?
The symptoms of strep throat begin to appear 3 to 5 days after exposure. The severity of the symptoms may vary, but most common ones include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Chills
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Difficulty in swallowing
Some people may also experience gut-related symptoms, which include stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Because these symptoms can occur due to different viral infections as well, it is important to get strep testing at our Arlington, TX, practice. It can provide you with a clear diagnosis.
Types of Strep Testing In Arlington, TX
Strep testing can be done in different ways. Our Arlington, TX, physician will decide the correct strep test based on your condition. It has the following types:
- Rapid antigen test: In this test, we detect the presence of bacterial antigens. The sample is taken from the back of your throat. It provides immediate results, but you may require further testing.
- Molecular test: It is also known as a polymerase chain reaction or PCR test. It detects the genetic material of the bacteria. This test provides highly accurate results and can differentiate between different types of strep throat.
- Throat culture: For this test, we will send a sample from your throat to a lab, where they perform the culture to check the presence of strep bacteria. The results may take 2 to 3 days, but it is the most accurate method for diagnosis.
What Happens If You Test Positive For Strep Throat?
With the use of strep testing, our Arlington, TX, we can diagnose the disease early and start the treatment right away. If you test positive, we will prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria within your system. The symptoms will start to disappear within a day or two, but you must complete the full course of the antibiotics. Stopping your medicines early may cause recurrent infection and allow the bacteria to develop antibiotic resistance.
Our doctor will also prescribe some symptomatic medications for fever and pain to help you achieve a smooth recovery. During this period, you should drink plenty of fluids, avoid strenuous activities, and rest well to let your body recover. We will also guide you about preventive measures to limit the spread of this infection to other people.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Strep throat may cause serious complications, but you can protect yourself and your family with strep testing in Arlington, TX. Contact our team at (817) 784-0052 for an appointment.