Throat swab culture in Chiswick

What the test measures

A swab is brushed briefly over the tonsils and the back of the throat. It can make you gag for a moment but takes only seconds. In the laboratory the sample is cultured to see whether group A streptococcus or other significant bacteria grow, and sensitivity testing can be added if an organism is found.

Most sore throats are caused by viruses and get better without antibiotics. A culture helps to separate a bacterial throat infection from a viral one when symptoms are prolonged, keep returning, or when you want clarity before treatment is considered. It does not test for viruses such as glandular fever, which needs a blood test.

The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have a sore throat with swollen tonsils that has lasted longer than a week.
• You keep getting sore throats or tonsillitis and want to know what is causing them.
• You have been in close contact with someone who has had confirmed strep throat.
• Your throat symptoms returned after a course of antibiotics.
• Your GP or dentist has suggested a culture to guide treatment.

Understanding your result

Your report notes whether a significant organism grew. Normal throat flora means no group A streptococcus or other notable bacteria were found. If an organism is identified, the report can include which antibiotics it responds to, and your practitioner talks you through what this means and whether treatment from your GP is appropriate.

A culture shows bacteria at the time of sampling. Some people carry streptococci in the throat without being unwell, so a positive finding is read alongside your symptoms rather than treated as a diagnosis on its own. If you have difficulty breathing, cannot swallow fluids, are drooling or have a stiff neck with a high temperature, call 999 or go to A&E rather than booking a test.

Preparing for your test

Please do not eat, drink, gargle or use mouthwash or throat sprays for at least an hour before the swab. If you have already started antibiotics, tell us, because they can stop bacteria growing and give a falsely reassuring finding. No fasting is otherwise needed.

If tiredness and swollen glands are part of the picture, a Full Blood Count shows how your white cells are responding, and Tired All The Time looks more widely at causes of fatigue. You can compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a throat swab culture in Chiswick?

A throat swab culture is £139 at Omnia Lifestyle. The price covers the swab at our Chiswick clinic, culture and sensitivity testing at the accredited laboratory, a practitioner review, and a GP feedback report if requested.

Can this tell if I need antibiotics?

It can show whether a bacterial cause such as group A streptococcus is present, which helps your GP decide on treatment. Prescribing decisions are made by a prescriber who has assessed you.

Does a throat swab check for glandular fever?

No. Glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is checked with a blood test for antibodies rather than a throat culture.

Is a throat swab painful?

It is usually brief and uncomfortable rather than painful. Some people gag or cough for a moment, and the sore throat itself may feel tender as the swab touches it.