What does strep A positive mean?

If you or your child has a positive result on a rapid strep test, it means you have strep throat or another strep A infection. No further testing will be needed. If the rapid test was negative, but the provider thinks you or your child might have strep throat, he or she may order a throat culture.

What feels good on strep throat?

Drink warm liquids that feel soothing to the throat, such as hot tea with honey, soup broth, or warm water with lemon. Herbal teas are especially soothing to a sore throat ( 5 ). Cool your throat by eating a cold treat like a popsicle or ice cream. Suck on a piece of hard candy or a lozenge.

Is strep positive or negative?

The rapid strep test can give false-negative results even when strep bacteria are present. When the results of a rapid strep test are negative, many doctors recommend doing a throat culture to make sure that strep throat is not present.

How to tell if you have strep throat or a sore throat?

Symptoms of strep. Strep throat symptoms usually are more severe than a sore throat caused by a virus. They can include: Sudden sore throat. Red tonsils that have white spots on them. Pain when swallowing. Fever. Swollen neck glands.

What happens if you have strep but have no symptoms?

Antibiotics Get You Well Fast. Someone who tests positive for strep throat but has no symptoms (called a “carrier”) usually does not need antibiotics. They are less likely to spread the bacteria to others and very unlikely to get complications. If a carrier gets a sore throat illness caused by a virus, the rapid strep test can be positive.

Why do I have strep throat when I have a cold?

If you do, it’s much more likely to be caused by a cold virus giving you sinus congestion that’s draining into your throat. You’re more likely to have strep if you don’t have cough symptoms with your sore throat.

Is it more likely to have strep throat if you have a fever?

If you haven’t checked your temperature but you’re pretty sure you have a fever, that counts, too. If you do, it’s much more likely to be caused by a cold virus giving you sinus congestion that’s draining into your throat. You’re more likely to have strep if you don’t have cough symptoms with your sore throat. Total up your points.