Strep throat Test
Acute pharyngitis is caused most often by a viral infection rather than a bacterial infection. Whenever necessary, it is important to do a strep throat test to be sure that the infection has been caused by strep bacteria, rather than a virus. This way, the correct medication can be prescribed to avoid worsening the problem of antibiotic-resistant strep bacteria.
Strep throat is a tonsil and throat bacterial infection caused by the strep (streptococcal) bacteria, which has several variants. The infection can result in painful, inflamed, irritated tonsils, which can cause a severe, sudden sore throat.
Streptococcus pyogenes, which are also called group A Streptococcus (group A strep), cause strep throat. Due to the overuse of antibiotics, strep bacteria have become increasingly resistant to antibiotics.
Symptoms of strep throat can include:
- Pain when swallowing
- Sudden onset of a sore throat
- Chills or fever
- Tonsils that are red and swollen
- Red, tiny marks on the roof of the mouth
- Lymph nodes in the front of the neck that are swollen
TESTING
Testing for group A Streptococcus (the most common strep bacteria that causes strep throat) at a pharmacy means that you can take the test immediately at the onset of symptoms, at your convenience.
At Brintnell Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we can perform a strep throat test, and if it shows a positive result, our prescribing pharmacist can prescribe antibiotics if appropriate, thereby preventing unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions for viral infections.
With a positive strep throat test, patients are reminded to follow the proper care to prevent the spread of strep throat infections, while a negative result enables the pharmacist to support patients in receiving the care they need, or recommending seeing a suitable health care provider, based on their symptoms.
PHARMACIST’S TIP
Group A strep pharyngitis can occur in people of all ages. The incubation period is about 2 to 5 days. Although it is most common among children, it is rare in children less than 3 years of age.
For a positive strep throat test, using an antibiotic can help to shorten the duration of symptoms, reduce the possibility of transmission to close contacts, and prevent the development of complications, for example, acute rheumatic fever.
At Brintnell Pharmacy and Travel Clinic, we can help you find out whether you have Group A strep pharyngitis or not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Strep Throat Test
Q. What is a strep throat test?
A. A strep throat test is a diagnostic procedure used to determine if a patient has strep throat, which is an infection caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. The test typically involves a throat swab that is analyzed for the presence of these bacteria.
Q. How is the strep throat test performed?
A. The strep throat test involves collecting a sample from the back of the throat using a cotton swab. This specimen is subsequently tested on-site to detect the presence of streptococcal bacteria.
Q. What symptoms might indicate the need for a strep throat test?
A. Common signs and symptoms of group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis that may indicate the necessity for a strep throat test include the following:
- Presence of pharyngeal or tonsillar exudate
- Elevated body temperature (fever)
- Tenderness or enlargement of the anterior cervical lymph nodes
- Absence of cough
There is an increased risk of GAS pharyngitis if there has been exposure to an individual diagnosed with strep throat within the preceding two weeks. It is noteworthy that a person with strep throat can be contagious for 2 to 5 days prior to the onset of symptoms. GAS pharyngitis is most frequently observed in children aged 5 to 10 years, particularly during the fall and winter months.
Q. What is the typical turnaround time for results from a strep throat test?
A. Results from a rapid strep test are generally available within minutes.
Q. Is the strep throat test painful?
A. Most patients find the throat swab to be uncomfortable but not painful. The procedure is quick, minimizing any discomfort.
Q. What should patients do if they test positive for strep throat?
A. If a patient tests positive for strep throat, it is important to know that a pharmacist is authorized to prescribe the necessary antibiotics to facilitate recovery.
Q. Are strep throat tests covered by insurance?
A. Please note that strep throat tests are not typically covered by insurance. However, we will provide a receipt, which patients can submit for reimbursement if they have a health spending account.
Q. What happens if a strep throat test returns negative but symptoms persist?
A. If a strep throat test is negative yet symptoms continue, the healthcare provider may consider other causes for the sore throat and may recommend further evaluation or alternative tests.
Q. Can children get tested for strep throat at Brintnell Pharmacy?
A. Yes, children can be tested for strep throat at Brintnell Pharmacy. It is recommended that parents consult with a healthcare professional regarding their child’s symptoms and the appropriateness of testing.
Q. Is there any preparation necessary before taking the strep throat test?
A. No special preparation is needed before taking a strep throat test. However, patients are advised to refrain from eating or drinking immediately before the test to ensure accurate results.
In conclusion, the strep throat test serves as an essential diagnostic tool at Brintnell Pharmacy, enabling the efficient identification and treatment of infection caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. Should you have any additional inquiries regarding the test or related treatment options, we invite you to speak with one of our healthcare professionals at the pharmacy.