An x-ray is a common medical test that involves taking photograph-like images of the inside of the body. X-rays use a small dose of electromagnetic radiation to create the picture. Soft body tissues appear dark and bones appear light or white on the x-ray film.
X-rays can be used on different parts of the body, depending on what is being diagnosed.
Chest x-rays can be used for:
- Pneumonia
diagnosis
- Locating tumors
- Looking for fluid
- Diagnosing heart problems
- Presurgical screening
Abdominal x-rays can be used for:
- Determining the cause of acute pain
- Locating swallowed objects
- Locating the cause of an intestinal obstruction
- Diagnosing a perforation of the digestive tract
Other forms of x-rays can be used to diagnose:
- Spinal problems
- Joint damage
- Bone problems
- Cardiovascular problems
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Respiratory problems
- Cancer
Problems with various organs
- Dental problems
- Sinus infections
- Pregnancy—Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before you get an x-ray.
Depending on the reason for the x-ray, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and other diagnostic tests before your x-ray. X-rays are usually done in a hospital or outpatient clinic. Follow your doctor's instructions as to what to do before your x-ray. For instance, you may be advised to avoid using deodorants, lotions, or powders before taking the x-ray, since these substances can interfere with the image.
Before your x-ray is taken, you may be instructed to remove jewelry and put on a hospital gown. If your x-ray is being used to examine soft tissues (eg, organs or veins), you may be asked to ingest a contrast medium (eg, barium) before the x-ray, usually done after an overnight fast.
You will be positioned against a device that holds the x-ray film, or you may be asked to hold a portable cassette against the area of your body to be x-rayed. Other parts of your body may be covered with a lead shield to reduce your exposure to radiation.
An x-ray technician will align the x-ray device over the part of your body being studied. The technician will leave the room and you will be asked to remain as still as possible while the images are being captured.
The x-ray will be sent to a radiologist who will analyze it and report the results back to you and/or your primary physician.
X-rays are generally very safe procedures. The risk of any damage to your bodily tissues is extremely low during an x-ray, since the amount of radiation used in most x-rays is very small. However, if you are pregnant or it is possible that you may be pregnant, tell your doctor before getting an x-ray. Since there is a small risk of pregnancy complications associated with x-rays, your doctor may decide it is best to wait until you are not pregnant to perform the x-ray.
None. You will be able to go home after the x-ray.
If you ingested a contrast medium, you will be instructed to drink extra fluids so you will excrete the medium quickly.
Once the x-ray is complete, you will be able to resume your daily activities.
There are no reported complications after this procedure.
Last reviewed May 2007 by David Juan, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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