What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a sore, scratchy throat along with fever, swollen glands, or pain when swallowing. It helps confirm whether Group A Streptococcus bacteria (the germ that causes strep throat) is the reason behind your symptoms. Knowing this matters because strep throat needs specific treatment to avoid complications, unlike a typical viral cold.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account, with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative culture means. If your result is positive, next steps typically include starting treatment quickly and retesting if symptoms don't improve within a few days. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records, and you can use the trends feature to track any future throat infections over time.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include a sudden sore throat, pain when swallowing, fever, red or swollen tonsils sometimes with white patches, and tender swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Unlike a cold, strep throat usually doesn't come with a cough or runny nose. If you or your child have these symptoms, especially after contact with someone who has strep, this test can help clarify what's going on.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days from when the lab receives your sample. The culture method takes a bit longer than rapid tests because it allows the bacteria time to grow, which makes the result more accurate. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone with a sore throat, fever, or swollen glands that isn't going away, especially if someone nearby has been diagnosed with strep. It's also useful for people who've had recurring throat infections and want to know if strep is the recurring cause. Parents monitoring a child's throat symptoms may also find this test helpful for peace of mind.

How can I naturally support my throat while waiting for results?

Gargling warm salt water, drinking warm liquids like tea with honey, and staying hydrated can help soothe throat discomfort. Getting extra rest allows your body to fight off infection more effectively. Avoiding irritants like smoke or very cold drinks can also help reduce pain until you know your results.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means Group A Streptococcus bacteria were found growing in your throat culture, confirming a strep infection. This is important to address, since untreated strep can sometimes lead to complications like abscesses or kidney and heart issues. Starting treatment promptly and finishing it completely typically leads to a quick recovery.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no Group A Streptococcus bacteria grew from your sample, so your symptoms are likely caused by something else, like a virus. Viral sore throats usually clear up on their own with rest and fluids. If your symptoms get worse or don't improve, it may be worth retesting or exploring other causes.

How often should I retest?

You generally don't need to retest unless your symptoms return or don't improve after treatment. If you're a known carrier or have recurring throat infections, retesting during a new symptomatic episode can help confirm whether strep is the cause again. Retesting right after finishing treatment usually isn't necessary unless symptoms persist.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your culture is positive, start any recommended treatment promptly and finish it fully, even if you start feeling better early. Watch for warning signs like difficulty breathing, severe swelling, or high fever, and seek medical care immediately if these occur. Keep track of your symptoms and follow up with retesting if things don't improve within a few days.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Strep Throat Culture Test - Sore Throat & Fever Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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