Lateral Flow tests are simple, easy-to-use tests that non-professionals can perform to assess a large number of patients. The technology uses a nitrocellulose membrane that works with a nanoparticle label. The membrane typically uses antibodies to produce the results.
You apply a sample, such as urine, and the sample will move through the membrane onto an absorbent pad, and it reacts to form a line. A control line is usually present to show that the test is working.
Types of lateral flow tests
Two common types are usually developed. First, there is a version similar to a dipstick, and then you can also get one that works with a housed cassette. Both tests work in similar manners. It just depends on the sample type you would like to use and what format is suitable for your purpose.
How accurate are lateral flow tests
In March 2021, the NHS and UK Government conducted research which indicated that the test was at least 99.9% accurate, with a minimal chance of seeing a false positive. But since then, independent facilities have suggested that the tests are often not very sensitive and can miss when viruses or bacteria are still in the early stages.
So, for example, recently, lateral flow tests were used extensively for COVID testing. However, one of the facilities, the Cochrane review, did a range of studies and found that compared to the PCR tests, the sensitivity isn’t as high.
But PCR tests require several hours to get results and must be performed by a professional in the medical field.
What are the advantages of lateral flow tests
Lateral flow tests can be conducted quickly and easily by a non-professional. They have a two-year shelf life, and you can have the results of the sample within 15 minutes. They are ideal for large group testing, for example, at an event, education facility, travel sectors, commercial offices or at healthcare clinics.
Where can you get the tests?
Dr Adams is one of the leading distributors of lateral flow tests. They can supply them in a variety of pack sizes and can also do bulk. Their tests are all fully CE-certified, TUV SUD certified and from ISO-certified manufacturers. In addition, they are approved for public use under the PROTOCOL in accordance with regulation 39A(2) and (3) of the Medical Devices Regulations 2002. For more information visit Dr Adams Laboratories website.
The two central testing systems available are Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), which is machine-read, and the lateral flow test. Each one has its advantages and different methods, as well as varying levels of accuracy. How the swab is handled, and the time it takes for each test to be processed are also major factors between these two. So let’s look at the lateral flow tests vs PCR and see which is better for your business.
The Lateral Flow Test
The Lateral Flow Test usually uses two lines to determine the presence or absence of a targeted analyte. The most known type of lateral flow test is a pregnancy test. The first line is usually the control line to determine if the test is working correctly. They are widely used in many industries, including pharmaceutical, environmental testing, animal health sectors and clinics.
They are easy to read, and the result can be obtained within minutes. But it is not very sensitive, and often it can miss low levels of positives or produce false positives.
Because of their easy use, they are ideal for quick screenings and can be used by relatively inexperienced staff.
And PCR Tests?
PCR Tests are known as the Gold Standard Test. They work by finding the DNA or RNA of a pathogen or abnormal cells in a sample. A small amount of genetic material in a sample is copied multiple times, allowing an expert to see any abnormalities. The test is sensitive enough to pick up low levels of the diseases, enabling them to detect infection early.
Due to the complicated machine processing, the swab must be handled by professionals. It can also take up to a few hours before results are available.
Lateral flow tests vs PCR?
If you are looking to do quick screenings in bulk, where you want your results in a matter of minutes, then lateral flow tests might be for you. But if you are looking for specific results with high accuracy, then PCR would be a better choice.
Both are Available Depending on Your Needs
Dr. Adams Laboratories stock both lateral flow and PCR testing options for clients and has the PCR laboratory equipment available. Contact us directly to find out more information, bulk options and any other consumables you might need for a testing facility within your lab or pharmacy.
Many of your clients might ask about ‘Bio-Remodelling’ their faces and hands with Profhilo. But before buying Profhilo online, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind with this new type of skin remodelling treatment. So we have compiled a few frequently asked questions in this article for your easy reference when buying Profhilo online.
How Does Profhilo Work?
Profhilo is a pure form of synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA) injected by a small needle strategically into the upper layers of the skin. The HA is very fluid compared to other dermal fillers, and the effect takes place over 3-5 days post-treatment, over the course of two sessions. The product slowly releases over a period of six months.
Unlike a dermal filler, Profhilo doesn’t aim to add volume to the skin. Instead, its goal is to improve the appearance of ageing by tightening sagging tissue and rehydrating the skin.
What are the Advantages?
Profhilo has the unique ability to travel through the skin, so your clients will experience less swelling post-treatment. It also contains the highest concentration of HA than any other injectable product, allowing the skin to feel highly moisturised afterwards and giving a natural glow. The results are instant after the first treatment, and the procedure is quick and simple. You can see why this product was awarded the ‘Product Innovation of the Year’ at the Aesthetic Awards in 2016 and the ‘Best Injectable Product in Europe’ in 2018.
Buying in Bulk Might be Easier
It might be easier to buy in bulk than to get one or two packages. If you buy Profhilo online in bulk, you could save costs, but as each client will need a course of two treatments over four weeks, it just makes sense. Profhilo also lasts for six months before naturally dispersing in your skin, so your clients will be coming back for more.
Make Sure You Have Constant Supply
Lastly, one of the most important things to remember when you buy Profhilo online is to ensure that your supplier has a constant supply. Of course, clients will assume you have access to an endless supply, and as the procedure is so quick and simple, they will probably also expect easy and fast appointments. Here, at Dr. Adams Laboratories, we can ensure that you don’t have hassles in this department and keep you well-stocked at all times.
Mild or moderate, Covid can last around two weeks for most people. For others, the effects of Covid can last even longer, causing continuous health problems for months after.
The National Centre for Health Statistics reports that 1 in 13 adults have Long Covid symptoms, that have lasted three or more months after contracting the virus.
What is Long Covid and what are the symptoms?
Long Covid involves a variety of new or ongoing symptoms that people experience for more than a month after getting Covid-19. A magnitude of symptoms has been uncovered for long-covid. For most, many of the respiratory symptoms that present when contracting Covid diminish after the first two weeks of contracting the virus. Some symptoms can continue creating physical and psychological health problems including:
· Increased fatigue
· Brain fog
· Persistent cough
· Fever
· Chest pain
· Joint or muscle pain
· Heart symptoms such as chest pain
· Digestive symptoms including diarrhoea and stomach pain
· Blood clots and blood vessel issues
· Difficulties sleeping
· Functional disabilities
· Dementia
· Epilepsy
· Seizures
· Depression or anxiety
The symptoms of Long Covid are creating huge challenges for people in completing their daily tasks. A new diagnosis of psychological disorders shows that symptoms can remain more common for as much as two years after having the Covid infection. In the UK Long covid has been ruled a disability, due to the long-term and adverse effects it is having on people’s lives.
Who is at risk of Long Covid?
Anyone is vulnerable to experiencing Long Covid symptoms. The symptoms have been reported more in those who had Covid more severe or who haven’t been vaccinated. Due to having long-term symptoms of Covid, it will be difficult to know if you have contracted the virus again, so it’s important to take regular lateral flow tests as a precaution.
Why does Covid cause ongoing problems?
Those who suffered from severe Covid could have been exposed to internal damage. For example, those who experienced organ damage whilst having Covid may have heart, kidney, brain, or skin problems as a result. Immune systems may have been placed under major stress through inflammation when contracting the virus, which has then created further health problems down the line.
Severe Covid symptoms which caused patients to be placed under medical care or in intensive care units could have resulted in extreme ongoing mental health problems or resulted in post-traumatic stress.
What should you do if you have Long Covid?
If you think you have symptoms of Long Covid you should consult with a Health Practitioner. It’s important to record everything from when your symptoms started, when they got worse, how often you experience them and how it affects your daily activities.
An assessment might be carried out to investigate symptoms and help rule out any conditions or issues. The tests could include, blood and heart rate tests, taking your blood pressure, chest x-ray etc. Depending on your symptoms your Health Practitioner will determine which physical or emotional recovery is best suited for you.
Long Covid in the workplace
Employers should be aware of the effects of Long Covid and how it can affect others completely differently. Support should be given to any employees who are suffering from Long Covid.
Continued testing
It is still important to continue testing to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The number of cases is rising, making it more important than ever to ensure a Covid-free place in your workplace, to keep operations moving and your employees safe. If you are in need of lateral flow tests to ensure you don’t have Covid, our friendly team will be more than happy to help. Get in touch!
Profhilo is the aesthetic craze that’s definitely worth all the attention and could just be the answer to your patients’ prayers. Profhilo is an award-winning skin-boosting treatment that’s been specially developed to rejuvenate skin, smooth fine lines, and lift tired, dull skin through an injectable moisturizer that possesses one of the highest safety ratings in the industry.
What is Profhilo made from?
The Profhilo treatment contains pure high-grade hyaluronic acid (HA) which improves skin quality and treats skin laxity. Each 2ml syringe holds 64mg of hyaluronic acid. HA is a potent moisturizing product that has the ability to draw 1,000 times its own weight in water into the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for binding and retaining water molecules. Profhilo simply hydrates the skin from within, leaving it fresh, and radiant and giving it an orb-like glow.
Where can Profhilo be injected?
Profhilo is an excellent anti-aging treatment, that’s clinically proven to help nourish the skin and deliver deep hydration for all skin types, improving skin quality for up to six months. Although Profhilo is most commonly used on the face, it works exceptionally where skin lacks laxity, such as on the neck décolleté, arms, knees, and hands.
An innovative injection technique
Profhilo’s injection process has been carefully designed and clinically tested for client comfort and efficacy, with each pre-filled syringe carefully injected deep into the dermis of the skin using the unique Bio Aesthetic Points (BAP) technique. The BAP method includes a total of 10 injection points (five on each side of the face), which are spread evenly. The treatment can be administered within a few minutes, creating a perfect ‘lunchtime procedure’ for your patients.
Say no more to patient concerns over pain, bruising, and negative application side effects. A clinical study found that 60% of patients and physicians showed a high satisfaction rating using the innovative BAP method and other patient feedback fostered a gradual healing transformation over the course of a month.
Is Profhilo permanent?
Unlike Botox and Fillers, Profhilo is a non-permanent injectable treatment. Profhilo is safely broken down in the skin and only remains in the body for 28 days. Following 4-6 weeks after the treatment, hyaluronic acid boosts the production of elastin and collagen within the skin and continues to stimulate collagen for another 6-8 months after. To help your patients maintain results, two repeat sessions are recommended every six to nine months.
Can Profhilo be used alongside other treatments?
Profhilo is the perfect partner to use alongside both traditional dermal fillers and Botox treatments., as well as PRP, micro-needling, laser, and light treatments, to further enhance rejuvenating benefits. For example, whilst Botox tackles wrinkles caused by specific muscles, Profhilo helps to give an overall radiance boost, to complement Botox results.
Why choose us?
At Dr. Adams Laboratories, we are passionate about bringing the highest quality products at unbeatable prices to our range of client clinics. We pride ourselves on providing a seamless service and fast delivery times to ensure you are never low on stock.
So, if you are looking to add Profhilo to your treatment list or looking to restock your patient’s favorite hydrating product, look no further. Please give our friendly team a call. We look forward to hearing from you!
