DIGITAL X-RAYS

X-RAYS

An X-ray is an imaging study that takes pictures of bones and soft tissues. X-rays use safe amounts of radiation to create these pictures. The images help healthcare providers diagnose a wide range of conditions and plan treatments. Usually, providers use X-rays to evaluate broken bones, dislocated joints and other bone injuries.

USES:

Your provider may order an X-ray to:

• Check for a broken bone (fractures).

• Identify the cause of symptoms, such as pain and swelling.

• Look for foreign objects in your body.

• Look for structural problems in your bones, joints or soft tissues.

• Plan and evaluate treatments.

• Provide routine screenings for cancer and other diseases.

What are the types of X-ray studies?

Several types of X-rays take pictures of different areas inside your body. Some X-rays use contrast material (also known as dye) to make the images clearer. Some of the most common types of X-rays include:

• Bone X-rays

• Chest X-ray

• Abdominal X-rays

• Dental X-rays

• CT scan

• Mammogram

What is an X-ray with contrast material?

Some X-rays use contrast material (also called contrast agent or dye). The contrast material comes as a liquid, powder or pill. Depending on the type of X-ray, you may receive the contrast material:

• Orally (by mouth).

• Through an injection like from an intravenous (IV) shot.

• By inserting it into your rectum (enema).

Note:When your provider gives you the dye through an IV injection, you may feel flushed or warm for a little while. Some people experience a metallic taste in their mouth. These side effects go away in a few minutes.

How do I prepare for an X-ray?

Tell your healthcare provider about your health history, allergies and any medications you’re taking. If you’re pregnant, think you might be pregnant tell your provider before getting an X-ray.

You usually don’t need to do anything to prepare for a bone X-ray. For other types of X-ray, your provider may ask you to:

• Avoid using lotions, creams or perfume.

• Remove metal objects like jewelry, hairpins or hearing aids.

• Stop eating or drinking several hours beforehand (for GI X-rays).

• Wear comfortable clothing or change into a gown before the X-ray.

What should I expect after an X-ray?

If you received contrast dye before your X-ray, you should drink plenty of water to flush the contrast material from your body. Some people have side effects from contrast dye, which may include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Stomach cramps or diarhhoea.

• Headaches.

• Rarely, allergic reactions to contrast material can occur. People who have allergies or asthma are more likely to have an allergic reaction to contrast dye. Talk to your provider about your risk of a reaction, and call your provider right away if you have unusual symptoms.

What are the risks of an X-ray?

Although X-rays use radiation (which can cause cancer and other health problems), there is a low risk of overexposure to radiation during an X-ray. Some X-rays use higher doses of radiation than others. Generally, X-rays are safe and effective for people of all ages.

Radiation from an X-ray can harm your fetus.