Strep Test

The strep test at Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Hammerly uses a swab to look for group A streptococcus bacteria in the throat. It's for children and adults with a bad sore throat and fever who need to know whether it's a bacterial infection or a virus, right here in Spring Branch, Houston.

How can you tell strep throat from a cold?

Strep tends to hit suddenly: swallowing hurts, a fever shows up, and there may be white patches on the tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth and swollen glands in the neck. In kids it can also bring a stomachache or vomiting. Cough, runny nose and hoarseness point more toward a virus, which antibiotics don't cure. Because the symptoms overlap, the test settles the question instead of guessing.

How is the swab done?

1. You open wide and stick out your tongue; an adult can hold a small child steady.
2. Our staff runs a long swab over the tonsils and the back of the throat.
3. The swab is over quickly; expect a brief gag reflex rather than pain.
4. The sample goes into the rapid test, and the medical team reviews the result with you before deciding on treatment.

What comes next depending on the result?

• Positive: the medical team prescribes an antibiotic and we send the e-prescription to the pharmacy you prefer. Finish every dose to prevent complications.
• Negative with strong symptoms: in children it's sometimes confirmed with a culture, which takes longer; we'll let you know when it's ready.
• Negative with cold-like symptoms: we give you tips to ease the pain and bring the fever down at home.

How do you keep the rest of the family from catching it?

Don't share cups, utensils or towels, wash your hands often and replace your toothbrush once the antibiotic has started. Warm or cold drinks and soft food make swallowing easier. If a cough or congestion lingers, see our respiratory illness service.

Did your child wake up with a swollen throat? Bring them to Hammerly Blvd and we'll test them today.