Diagnostics·Diagnostics
Throat culture
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A throat culture is a test to find out if you have a bacterial infection in your throat. A doctor or nurse uses a soft swab to gently wipe the back of your throat, then the swab is sent to a lab to see if bacteria grow. It helps tell the difference between a viral sore throat and a bacterial one, like strep throat.
Key facts
- The test takes only a few seconds and does not hurt, though it might make you gag a little.
- Lab results usually come back in 2 to 3 days, but some rapid tests can give results in minutes.
- A throat culture is the best way to confirm strep throat, a bacterial infection that needs treatment with antibiotics.
Yes, throat cultures are very common. Doctors often do them when someone has a sore throat with certain symptoms that suggest a bacterial infection.
Anyone can have a throat culture, but they are most often done on children and teenagers because they are more likely to get strep throat. Adults with severe sore throat and fever may also need one.