A COVID-19 PCR test is a diagnostic test used to determine the presence of the COVID-19 virus in your body. Your provider swabs the back of your throat or nose for mucus, which we test for SARS, the virus that causes COVID-19. The test is highly accurate because it amplifies the virus’s genetic material.
At A Glance
-
Test Length
32 minutes
-
Tested Area
Nose and mouth
-
Test Results Received In
32 minutes
Results You Can Trust
When you start showing symptoms of COVID-19, you need a medical practice you can trust. Ahmed Family Practice offers highly accurate COVID testing in Forest Park. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing uses a swab sample from the back of the nose or throat. The PCR test determines if the genetic material (RNA) of the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS) is in your sample.
We can test for:
-
COVID-19
-
Flu
-
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Find Your Customized Solution
Select your concerns using our online tool to receive personal treatment recommendations!
20+
Years Of Experience
32k
Valued Ongoing Patients
500k+
Georgian Lives Impacted
20+
Life Changing Treatments
50+
Medical Practice Awards
Start Your New Chapter
We look forward to seeing you at Ahmed Family Practice. Request your appointment today!
Explore Our Other Services
Medically reviewed by
Doctor Kashif Ahmed, MD
The main difference between PCR testing and regular antigen tests lies in their accuracy and the time it takes to receive results. PCR tests detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, while antigen tests identify specific proteins (antigens) found in the virus. Antigen tests are quicker than PCR tests; however, their results are generally less accurate.
We consider PCR testing the gold standard for COVID-19 tests. This test specifically detects genetic material from your swab sample. A laboratory precisely analyzes it, ensuring highly accurate results.
At Ahmed Family Practice, we offer COVID testing in Forest Park for patients ages 5 and older. We recommend that individuals exhibiting symptoms of the virus come in for testing as soon as possible. Additionally, if you were in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID, it is advisable to get tested even if you are not showing any symptoms.
COVID-19 PCR testing is generally safe for patients. It’s a brief test that does not involve any harmful substances. You may experience some mild discomfort from the swab, but the risk of complications is minimal.
We recommend coming in for testing as soon as symptoms start showing. Common symptoms of COVID-19 to look for include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Coughing
- Stuffy nose
- Soar throat
- Loss of taste or smell
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
You should also consider getting tested if you were around someone with a COVID-19 diagnosis. It’s possible to test positive for the virus without showing any symptoms.
Your need to quarantine depends on the reason for getting tested. If you suspect you may have the virus due to symptoms or recent exposure, we recommend quarantining until you receive your test results.
However, if you are getting tested as part of routine screening or surveillance, you may not need to quarantine unless your test result returns positive.
If your test comes back negative but you’re feeling unwell, it’s possible you may have another type of virus. Since each illness is handled differently, your provider will give you the proper guidance, depending on your results and symptoms.