If you develop symptoms like a dry cough, a sore throat, or loss of taste and smell, COVID testing can help pinpoint the underlying cause. At Solace Family Healthcare, family practice and urgent care provider Tracy Underwood, FNP-BC, and the team provide rapid antigen and polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) COVID-19 testing during regular business hours. To receive COVID testing in Cumberland, Maryland, walk into the office today.

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What is COVID testing?

COVID testing analyzes a sample of your mucus or saliva to determine if you have the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The process is quick and convenient, and most people get their results within 30 minutes or 48 hours or less, depending on the test they receive.

Who can benefit from COVID testing?

You might benefit from COVID testing if you experience symptoms of COVID-19 like:

  • Fever or chills
  • A dry cough
  • Loss of taste and smell
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose

You might also benefit from a COVID test if you need a clean bill of health to travel, have an upcoming medical procedure, or are attending an event.

What are the types of COVID testing?

The team at Solace Family Healthcare offers several types of COVID testing, including:

Rapid antigen COVID testing

A rapid antigen test analyzes a sample of your mucus for the presence of viral markers called antigens. If the laboratory determines your sample has COVID-19 antigens, it results in a positive test.

Rapid tests provide results in about half an hour, but false negatives or positives are possible. If you receive a negative result but have symptoms of COVID-19, the team might recommend taking a PCR test as well.

Polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) COVID testing

A PCR COVID test analyzes a sample of your mucus or saliva for the presence of multiple viral genes. Since PCR tests can identify more than one gene, they’re considered more accurate than rapid antigen tests. PCR tests take longer to process, but most people get their results within 48 hours.

What if my COVID test comes back positive?

If your COVID test comes back positive, it’s important to isolate so you don’t get others sick. The team at Solace Family Healthcare recommends you:

  • Stay home for at least five days (or until you no longer have a fever)
  • Wear a mask around others for at least 10 days
  • Continue washing your hands frequently
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow

Most people with COVID recover on their own at home, but if your symptoms persist, worsen, or affect your ability to breathe, visit the nearest emergency room right away.

Is COVID testing painful?

COVID testing isn’t painful, but it can be uncomfortable. When your provider collects a sample of mucus or saliva, they stick a swab into your nostril or throat. It’s normal to experience some mild discomfort, but the entire process typically takes less than 10 seconds.

If you or a loved one need COVID testing, walk into Solace Family Healthcare during normal business hours today.