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An X-ray is a common imaging test that’s been used for decades. It can help
your doctor view the inside of your body without having to make an incision.
This can help them diagnose, monitor, and treat many medical conditions.
Different types of X-rays are used for different purposes. For example, your
doctor may order a mammogram to examine your breasts. Or they may order an
X-ray with a barium enema to get a closer look at your gastrointestinal tract.
There are some risks involved in getting an X-ray. But for most people, the
potential benefits outweigh the risks. Talk to your doctor to learn more about
what is right for you.
bone cancer
breast tumors
enlarged heart
blocked blood vessels
conditions affecting your lungs
digestive problems
fractures
infections
osteoporosis
arthritis
tooth decay
needing to retrieve swallowed items
Always tell your doctor or radiologist if you have metal implants from prior
surgeries. These implants can block X-rays from passing through your body
and creating a clear image.
In some cases, you may need to take a contrast material or “contrast dye”
before your X-ray. This is a substance that will help improve the quality of the
images. It may contain iodine or barium compounds. Depending on the reason
for the X-ray, the contrast dye may be given in different ways, including:
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Once you’re fully prepared, your X-ray technician or radiologist will tell you
how to position your body to create clear images. They may ask you to lie, sit,
or stand in several positions during the test. They may take images while you
stand in front of a specialized plate that contains X-ray film or sensors. In some
cases, they may also ask you to lie or sit on a specialized plate and move a large
camera connected to a steel arm over your body to capture X-ray images.
It’s important to stay still while the images are being taken. This will provide
the clearest images possible.
The test is finished as soon as your radiologist is satisfied with the images
gathered.
If you ingest a contrast material before your X-ray, it may cause side effects.
These include:
hives
itching
nausea
lightheadedness
a metallic taste in your mouth
In very rare cases, the dye can cause a severe reaction, such as anaphylactic
shock, very low blood pressure, or cardiac arrest. If you suspect you’re having
a severe reaction, contact your doctor immediately.
What happens after an X-ray?
After your X-ray images have been collected, you can change back into your
regular clothes. Depending on your condition, your doctor may advise you to
go about your normal activities or rest while you’re waiting for your results.
Your results may be available on the same day as your procedure, or later.
Your doctor will review your X-rays and the report from the radiologist to
determine how to proceed. Depending on your results, they may order
additional tests to develop an accurate diagnosis. For example, they may order
additional imaging scans, blood tests, or other diagnostic measures. They may
also prescribe a course of treatment.
Ask your doctor for more information about your specific condition, diagnosis,
and treatment options.
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Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, PhD, RN, CRNA, COI — Written by
Brian Krans — Updated on September 2, 2020