Strep Test

A sore throat with fever and no cough may be strep pharyngitis, which needs antibiotics to prevent complications; most other sore throats are viral and go away on their own. At Clínica Hispana Corazón y Vida in Pasadena, the rapid test clears it up in minutes, without an appointment and in Spanish.

What does the visit include?

• Symptom evaluation and examination of throat, ears, lymph nodes and lungs.
• Rapid strep test with a throat swab.
• Throat culture when the rapid test is negative in children with clear symptoms.
• Antibiotics the same day if positive, and guidance for pain relief.
• Flu or COVID test if symptoms suggest it.
• A note for school or work with the return date.

How do I tell strep from a cold?

Strep usually causes intense sore throat with sudden onset, fever, swollen neck glands, white spots on the tonsils and sometimes headache or stomachache, without cough or runny nose. A common cold brings cough, congestion and hoarseness. Only the test confirms the cause.

What is the test like?

1. A swab is passed over the back of the throat for a few seconds; it may cause brief gagging.
2. The rapid test is processed at the clinic and the result is ready in a few minutes.
3. If positive, you leave with the prescription; if negative and there is doubt, a culture is sent.

When can I go back to school or work?

With strep, after 12 to 24 hours of antibiotics and once fever-free. Take the full course, usually ten days, even if you feel well after two: that prevents rheumatic fever and relapses. Replace your toothbrush two or three days after starting the antibiotic.

When should I go to the emergency room?

Difficulty swallowing saliva or breathing, swelling on one side of the neck, very high fever that does not come down or a stiff neck. Do not wait for the clinic in those cases.

How do I relieve the pain while the treatment takes effect?

Warm or cold fluids as you prefer, ice pops for children, warm salt-water gargles for those over six, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to age and weight. Avoid acidic or very hot foods and rest your voice for a couple of days.

How much does it cost?

The visit and the test have a direct price, no insurance, in cash or by card. Confirm on WhatsApp at (346) 646-2974.

Where and when?

Walk in at 918 W Southmore Ave, Suite 180, Pasadena, TX 77502, every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. See also care for colds, cough and respiratory illness.