Description of the test
X-rays (a type of radiation) were discovered in 1895. By shining X-rays on the body, an image is produced on film. Areas of the body that are denser, such as bone, appear whiter on the film because they block X-rays. Areas of less dense tissue, such as organs and muscles, appear gray on film. They appear darker because they don't block as many of the X-rays. Body parts that contain air, such as the lungs, will look quite dark, as they hardly block any X-rays.
How often should this test be performed?
Your doctor will decide when and how frequently this test is required.
Why is this test performed?
X-rays provide an image of the inside of your body. With results from this test, your doctor can better identify what may be causing a problem is and the best way to treat it. X-rays can be performed on virtually any part of the body. The most frequently examined body parts include the chest, abdomen, pelvis, and spine.
The many uses of X-rays may help your doctor to:
- check for bone fractures
- check for certain bone and joint conditions (e.g., osteoporosis, arthritis)
- find infections in various organs (e.g., pneumonia in the lungs)
- locate tumors in various organs
- find foreign objects that have been swallowed or have become stuck in a wound
- check for tooth or jaw injuries or diseases
- examine the curvature of the spine and locate spinal problems
- check for heart, lung, or abdominal problems
- check the sinuses for infection
Are there any risks and precautions I should know about?
There is very low risk of side effects or complications for this test. A single X-ray examination results in a very low radiation dose that is unlikely to cause a significant increased risk of cancer. As a precaution, a technician often places a lead apron over the pelvic area to reduce exposure to X-ray radiation.
If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, tell your doctor or X-ray technician before the test is done. X-rays may cause damage to the developing cells of the fetus, so your doctor will decide whether to cancel the X-ray or to take precautions to minimize the risk to the baby (such as using a lead apron).
With some X-rays, you may need to take a dye (also called a contrast medium or contrast dye) to help make some body areas easier to see. This dye, which often contains iodine or barium, may be taken by mouth or through an intravenous injection or rectal tube. If the dye is injected, you may experience pain, swelling, or redness in the injection area.
Try to follow instructions closely, to get the most accurate X-ray results. Stay still if the technician asks you to. If you move, the X-ray image will not be clear.
You will not feel the X-rays.
