Strep Test

A severe sore throat, fever and white patches on the tonsils: it may be strep, and that one does need an antibiotic. At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud Pasadena the rapid test is done in the clinic, with no appointment, and the result and treatment come out at the same visit.

How do I tell strep throat from a viral sore throat?

The bacterial kind usually causes intense pain when swallowing, fever, swollen glands in the neck, red tonsils with spots or white patches, and sometimes headache or stomachache, without cough or congestion. The viral kind comes with cough, runny nose, hoarseness and irritated eyes. Since looks can deceive, the only sure way to know is the test.

What is the rapid test like?

A swab is passed over the tonsils and the back of the throat for a few seconds; it causes brief gagging, not pain. The result is ready in minutes. If it is negative but symptoms point to strep, especially in children, a throat culture can be sent, which confirms in one or two days. Do not eat or drink anything right before the test.

What treatment is given?

If positive, a 10-day antibiotic, usually from the penicillin family, or an alternative if you are allergic. After 24 hours of treatment you are no longer contagious and can return to work or school if there is no fever. It is important to finish the 10 days even if you feel fine by day three: that is how rheumatic fever, a rare but serious complication, is prevented. If negative, treatment is for relief: fluids, pain reliever and rest; an antibiotic does not help.

When should I come right away?

Trouble breathing or swallowing saliva, not being able to open the mouth well, swelling on one side of the neck, a muffled voice or fever that does not come down after two days of antibiotics. Those signs may point to an abscess and need same-day care.

Can it spread in the family?

Yes. If someone at home has strep, those who develop symptoms should be tested; people without symptoms are not treated. Changing the toothbrush after the first 24 hours of antibiotics helps avoid reinfection.

How much does a strep test cost in Pasadena?

We give you the price of the visit with rapid test by phone at (281) 747-8817; the culture, if needed, is separate. No health insurance is needed; we accept cash and cards.

What is the visit like?

Walk in from 9 AM to 9 PM, the sample is taken, you wait for the result in the clinic and the physician checks your throat, ears and neck. You leave with a prescription and, if needed, a note for work or school. If there is also cough and body aches, the flu and COVID test is done at the same visit; seasonal vaccines too.

Medical center near you in Pasadena and Houston, TX

We are a Hispanic clinic in the Houston, TX area: we care for patients across Pasadena and South Houston, South Belt, Genoa, Sagemont, Galena Park, Deer Park, Hobby (Houston) and surrounding communities.