Throat Culture Test - Price, Purpose, Preparation - 2024

Table of Content

Introduction to Throat Swab Test

A throat swab test is a simple test used to diagnose infections in the throat. Doctors often recommend throat swab tests to diagnose infections caused by bacteria or viruses in the throat. The test identifies infections like streptococcal bacteria, which can cause strep throat. Strep throat causes symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Your doctor might recommend the test if you experience symptoms like sore throat, swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes. The test is also used to detect other respiratory infections, like the flu or common cold viruses. You can take a throat swab test from Redcliffe Labs. Book your appointment online, and the phlebotomist will come to your place for a sample collection. We ensure accurate test results are provided on time at highly competitive costs. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the Throat Swab Test

Viruses cause most sore throats and go away within a few days. If it is not normal in 2-3 days, consult your doctor for proper advice and take a throat swab test. The purpose of the throat swab is to

• Diagnose infectious diseases- The most common use of a throat swab test is to diagnose bacterial infections, such as strep throat, caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. It can also diagnose viral infections, such as influenza or mononucleosis, and fungal infections, such as thrush.
• Determine the type of infection- Your doctor may recommend the test if you have redness, swelling, and tonsil symptoms. By identifying the specific cause of the disease, the doctor can prescribe the most effective treatment. The doctor may recommend some antibiotics against bacterial infections, while antiviral or antifungal medications are needed for viral and fungal infections.
• Monitor treatment-  In some cases, a throat swab test may be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for an infection. This is especially important for people with compromised immune systems or those taking antibiotics.

When is a Throat Swab Test Recommended?

Your doctor may recommend the throat swab if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Sore throat for more than 2-3 days
• Swollen tonsils
• Difficulty swallowing
• Fever, 101°F (38.3°C)
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
• Headache
• Body aches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
• Blood in saliva or mucus
• Dehydration
• Dry mouth

What does the Throat Swab Test detect?

The throat swab test is primarily used to detect the presence of infectious organisms in your throat. 

• Bacteria- Group A Streptococcus is one of the most common causes of strep throat, which causes symptoms of severe throat, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Viruses- The test detects influenza, respiratory syncytial, and other viruses that can cause similar flu symptoms. 
• Fungi- Candida albicans fungus causes white patches to form on the tongue and inner cheeks. 

Preparation for the Throat Swab Test

No specific preparation is required for the throat swab test. The test is simple and quick. You need to take a few things mentioned below-

• You can eat and drink as usual.
• Avoid certain substances like antiseptic mouthwash.
• Consult your doctor about your medications or medical conditions. 

The procedure of the Throat Swab Test

The throat swab test is a swab test. The phlebotomist will collect the sample from your throat and nose. 

During the procedure, the lab professional will ask you to relax, open wide, and say, "Ahh.” The professional gently rubs a swab on your throat and tonsils to collect the sample. You can rinse your mouth with water after the test, but avoid using mouthwash. The procedure will only take a few seconds. 

The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis, and the reports will be provided within 3 days. 

What do the Throat Swab Test reports indicate?

Interpreting throat swab test results will be available within 3 days of sample collection. Here is the breakdown of test results-

• Positive- The positive reports indicate the presence of group A streptococcus bacteria. In this case, antibiotics are usually recommended.
• Negative- The negative results mean the absence of viral or bacterial infection. 

Always check your test results with your doctor for proper interpretation and treatment based on the symptoms and medical history. A negative report might not necessarily mean you are completely healthy. It might need a proper diagnosis. Feel free to ask your doctor questions about your test results or the next steps.

What if the Throat Swab Test reports are positive?

The positive throat swab test indicates the presence of viral or bacterial infection. Your doctor will prescribe some antibiotics against A streptococcus bacteria. The medicines will help to reduce the symptoms, and you will feel better within 24 to 48 hours. With medicines, remember to hydrate yourself and take rest. Monitor the symptoms and consult your doctor if the symptoms persist for more than a week. Take care of hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.

Who should take the Throat Swab Test?

Whether you should take the throat swab test depends on several factors, including medical history and symptoms. Here are some people who must take the test- 

• People with severe sore throat
• People have symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. 
• Suspected strep throat
• Close contact with an infected person
• Compromised immune system

How to prevent others from Throat infection?

Maintaining good hygiene is important to protect others from throat infections. Viruses or bacteria often cause throat infections and can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Here are some measures to protect others from throat infections:

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, or touching your face.
2. Cover Your Mouth and Nose- Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
3. Wear a Mask- If you are experiencing symptoms of a throat infection or any respiratory illness, wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets to others.
4. Avoid Close Contact- Make social distancing from people having throat infection symptoms.
5. Stay Home When Sick- If you are experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, cough, or other signs of illness, stay at home and avoid spreading the infection to others.
6. Stay Hydrated and Maintain Good Health- Staying hydrated and maintaining overall good health can help support your immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
7. Follow the Healthcare Provider's Advice- consult your doctor and take a throat swab test to identify the infection and get treatment on time.

Throat Swab Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The throat swab test price at Redcliffe Labs is INR 800. You can book your test online with the Redcliffe Labs app. With a network of over 80 labs and 220+ sample collection centers across India, we are easily accessible. Our prices are highly competitive, and we also offer many discounts and offers. With us, you don’t need to travel to a lab! We have made sample collection very convenient, even more accessible and comfortable. Our labs are NABL and ISO-certified and adhere to stringent quality standards and reliable practices. We use cutting-edge technology and equipment to ensure accurate and reliable test results. 

Choose us to get accurate and reliable test results with smooth, hassle-free diagnostic services.

Throat Swab Test Cost in Different Cities

Throat Swab Tests: Essential Diagnostic Tool for Infections 

A throat swab test is often conducted to collect a sample from the back of the throat for diagnostic purposes. This type of test is commonly used to detect the presence of infections or pathogens, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. Throat swabs are frequently used to diagnose respiratory diseases such as streptococcal infections (strep throat) caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. Other respiratory viruses and bacteria, such as influenza, adenovirus, and mycoplasma, can also be detected through throat swab testing. Additionally, the test aids in distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections, guiding medical decisions, and preventing unnecessary antibiotic use in viral cases.