If you’ve ever had a sore throat that hits hard and fast, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and go away on their own. But sometimes, it’s a bacterial infection—like strep throat—which needs antibiotics. In this article, we’re going to break down how strep throat is diagnosed, what rapid tests and throat cultures actually do, and why getting a quick, accurate diagnosis matters. We’ll also explain how Helicopteros Sanitarios’ Home Doctor for a Strep Throat in Sotogrande can make this whole process a lot easier and more comfortable.
What is strep throat?
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A strep. It spreads easily and tends to hit children and teenagers the most, but adults aren’t immune. The signs? A very sore throat, fever, swollen tonsils, white patches, and sometimes a rash.
The tricky part is that these symptoms can look a lot like a viral infection, which doesn’t need antibiotics. That’s why testing is important; it helps prevent unnecessary medication and makes sure the people who do need antibiotics get them quickly.
The rapid strep test: quick but not perfect
One of the most common tools doctors use is the rapid antigen detection test (RADT), usually just called the rapid strep test. It’s simple: a swab of your throat is taken and results come back in under 10 minutes.
Pros:
- Fast results
- Can be done right at home (yes, even during a home doctor visit)
- Easy to administer
But it’s not 100% accurate. While it's great at detecting strep when it’s really there, it can sometimes miss it. That’s where the second method comes in.
Throat cultures: slower but more reliable
If your rapid test is negative but your doctor still thinks it might be strep, they’ll probably order a throat culture. This is the gold standard. Another swab is taken and sent to a lab, where they let the bacteria (if any) grow over 24–48 hours.
It takes longer, but it’s more thorough, especially in kids, who are more prone to complications if strep goes untreated.
Why testing matters
You don’t want to take antibiotics unless you really need them, and you definitely don’t want to skip them when you do. Untreated strep can lead to serious complications like:
- Rheumatic fever
- Kidney inflammation
- Abscesses in the throat
Getting the diagnosis right is key. And doing it at home, without the hassle of waiting rooms or driving while feeling awful? Even better.
Home Doctor for a Strep Throat in Sotogrande
At Helicopteros Sanitarios, our Home Doctor for a Strep Throat in Sotogrande brings this entire process to your doorstep. Whether it’s 10am or 10pm, our doctors arrive equipped to assess your symptoms, perform a rapid test, and prescribe treatment if needed. No waiting. No driving. No unnecessary exposure to other illnesses in clinics.
And if you become a Helicopteros Sanitarios member, you’ll have unlimited home visits, no matter how urgent or routine the situation is. From mild sore throats to more serious health concerns, we’re just a call away, anytime, day or night.