At Exceptional Emergency Center, we know that when you’re not feeling well, getting fast, accurate answers is crucial. That’s why we provide on-site lab testing and imaging services 24/7, so you never have to wait long for a diagnosis. If you’re wondering how long a strep throat test takes, this guide will walk you through the process, symptoms, and what to expect.
What Is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is a contagious bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It commonly affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, but can occur at any age. The bacteria spread through airborne droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact, and they can also survive on contaminated surfaces. Because it’s highly infectious, strep throat can quickly spread in shared environments like schools, daycares, or households. In some cases, people may carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms, known as asymptomatic carriers, yet still pass the infection to others. Without timely treatment, strep throat can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever, ear infections, or kidney inflammation.
Symptoms of Strep Throat
Symptoms usually appear 2 to 5 days after exposure and can range from mild to severe. Common signs include:
- Sudden sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen, red tonsils (sometimes with white patches)
- Fever
- Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Other symptoms, especially in children, may include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Scarlet fever rash
It’s important to note that some individuals may carry the bacteria without showing symptoms but can still spread the infection.
How Is a Strep Test Performed?
At Exceptional Emergency Center, our experienced medical team uses two reliable diagnostic methods to confirm the presence of strep throat: the Rapid Antigen Test and the Throat Culture. Both are simple, painless, and begin with a quick swab of the back of your throat and tonsils using a sterile cotton applicator.
1. Rapid Antigen Test (Rapid Strep Test)
This is the most commonly used initial test for strep throat. It involves gently swabbing the back of your throat to collect a sample of secretions. The sample is then tested for specific antigens (proteins) associated with group A Streptococcus bacteria.
- Speed: Results are typically available within 10 to 15 minutes.
- Convenience: Performed on-site in our 24/7 lab, allowing for immediate diagnosis and treatment if positive.
- Accuracy: While highly accurate, especially when symptoms are present, false negatives can occasionally occur, prompting follow-up testing when needed.
2. Throat Culture
If the rapid test result is negative but symptoms strongly suggest a strep infection, a throat culture may be performed for confirmation. This process involves sending the throat swab to our on-site lab, where the sample is cultured, meaning it is incubated to allow any group A strep bacteria present to grow.
- Turnaround: Culture results typically take 2 to 5 days.
- Thoroughness: This method is considered the gold standard for accuracy, especially in borderline or asymptomatic cases.
- Follow-up: While awaiting results, your doctor may advise symptomatic treatment and start antibiotics if clinically necessary.
Thanks to our in-house lab capabilities, Exceptional Emergency Center ensures minimal wait times, quick follow-ups, and dependable testing accuracy, so you can begin treatment without delay.
How Long Does a Strep Throat Test Take?
The swabbing process itself only takes a few seconds.
- Rapid Strep Test: Results in under 15 minutes
- Throat Culture: Results in 2 to 5 days
At Exceptional Emergency Center, we prioritize rapid testing with immediate results. Our on-site lab services ensure you receive answers quickly, with no long waits or outside referrals.
Why Timely Testing Matters
Prompt diagnosis allows for fast treatment, which:
- Reduces symptoms and discomfort quickly
- Prevents complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation
- Minimizes the spread to others
Strep throat is treated effectively with antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Starting antibiotics early also reduces contagiousness within 24 hours.
Get Tested Today at Exceptional Emergency Center
If you’re experiencing signs of strep throat, such as a sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils, or difficulty swallowing- don’t wait to seek care. Early testing is key to reducing the severity of symptoms, preventing complications, and stopping the spread of infection to others.
At Exceptional Emergency Center, we provide fast, accurate, and compassionate care 24/7, including on-site lab testing and imaging for your convenience. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a busy weekend, our expert medical team is ready to assist you, no appointments required.