COVID-19 continues to be a killer disease all over the world, with millions infected and others dead. The highly infectious disease affects people of all ages, causing severe effects to patients older and with existing chronic conditions. Prevention is the best medicine, through washing your hands, keeping your social distance, taking the tests, and getting vaccinated.
COVID testing allows you to keep your family and friends safe. Ham Lake nasal swab is among one the methods used to test for COVID. If you have not had your test yet, book your appointment today at GatherWell COVID Testing and help stop the transmission.
What is a nasal swab?
A nasal swab is a type of test that detects viruses and bacteria that lead to respiratory infections. The test provides an accurate diagnosis for a specific type of respiratory infection and the ideal treatment that will give the best results. A nasal swab test occurs by taking a sample of your nostrils cells.
When to use a nasal swab?
Your provider may request a nasal swab to diagnose various respiratory infections, including:
- COVID-19
- The flu
- Meningitis
- Whooping cough
- Respiratory syncytial virus
What is an antigen test?
A nasal swab is a type of antigen test. Antigen tests detect proteins in the virus responsible for COVID-19.
When do you need a nasal swab?
You may require to take a nasal swab test if you have respiratory infection symptoms such as:
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Muscle aches
- Fever
What to expect during a nasal swab?
Your provider may take your nasal swab from the front part or back of your nostrils and at the uppermost part of your nose and throat.
Your provider may also ask you to take the swab yourself. During the test, you tilt your head back. Then your provider inserts the swab gently in your nostril.
Proceed to rotate the swab and let it stay in place for 10-15 seconds, and repeat the same procedure for the second nostril. Eventually, remove the swab.
You do not need any preparations for a nasal swab test. The test is safe without any risks; however, the swab may be uncomfortable, causing coughing or tickling on your throat, all of which are temporary.
What does a positive antigen test result mean?
A positive test result means the proteins from the coronavirus were present in your sample, showing you might have COVID-19. Your provider may suggest you go into isolation to prevent the spreading of the virus. The test is effective and has a very small chance for inaccuracy.
Your provider will then work with you to help you best and enhance your healing and recovery.
What does a negative antigen test result mean?
A negative test result shows no protein viruses on your sample, meaning you do not have COVID-19. However, the test can be incorrect; in that case, your provider may compare your symptoms and medical history to find a way to help you.
A molecular test may help rule out if you have an infection if your results turn negative.
Contact GatherWell COVID-19 Testing Today
It is good to have your COVID-19 testing today to help protect yourself and your family from the disease. Call the office today to schedule your appointment.
