What is an X-Ray?
What is an X-Ray?“I understand we’re going to do your right knee.”An X-ray is a test that uses radiation to make pictures of bones, joints, and organs inside your body. Dense tissues likeyour bones absorb more radiation, so they look white on the image. Thinner tissues, like muscles, blood, and fat,absorb less radiation, so they show up gray.“X-rays are very useful. We use them often to look at bones for things like fractures or arthritis. We also use thema lot to look at your lungs for things like pneumonia.”-Dr. Aaron Hattaway, MD, RadiologistBefore the X-ray, you may be asked to change into a gown, depending on the area being examined. You might also beasked to remove jewelry and other items containing metal that could show up on the image. X-rays expose you tosome radiation, so a lead apron may be used to shield parts of your body that aren’t being x-rayed. Though theamount of radiation from a single X-ray is small and the test is safe, repeated exposures could slightly increase yourrisk for cancer.“If you're pregnant, it's always a good idea to make sure that someone taking the X-rays knows, so they canappropriately shield you and take measures to keep that exposure as low as possible.”- Dr. Aaron Hattaway, MD,RadiologistDuring the test, you'll either lie on a table or stand.“We’re ready. Don’t move.”You’ll have to hold still while the X-ray is taken. The whole test takes about 15 minutes. After, it’s finished, you can gohome.“If your results are normal, you may not need to do anything else, but if the test picks up a problem, you may needadditional tests. You should be sure and ask your provider so that they can give you guidance as to additionaltests, treatments or any other follow up that you may need.”- Dr. Aaron Hattaway, MD, RadiologistPage 1 of 1This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG5318998 EN WhatIsAnXRay.pdf© The Wellness Network
© The Wellness Network
