X-rays
X-rays are the most commonly used diagnostic tool to safely look inside a person’s body — mainly your bones. They use radiation called electromagnetic waves to capture images inside the body. The pictures show the body parts in different shades of black and white because other tissues absorb different amounts of radiation.
Overview
An X-ray examination is performed for a multitude of reasons, such as diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. Doctors order these inspections to examine the images of your internal organs or bones to diagnose underlying conditions or injuries.
X-rays can show irregularities; however, they are not shown in their display— muscles, ligaments, and joint tissue doesn’t appear very well on an X-ray scan. Still, an X-ray is the primary diagnostic tool recommended for our patients in pain.
At Hillcroft Physicians P.A., our doctors use an in-house X-ray to diagnose patients effectively. First, we quickly test for a tumor or fracture. If your X-ray is inconclusive, our physicians may order further tests involving a CT scan, endoscopy, or MRI, which all take longer than an X-ray and are much more involved.
Health Tips & Info
Are X-rays safe?
Exposure to X-rays slightly increases the risk of cancer, but there is a meager chance. X-rays have a low dosage of radiation, which means x-rays cannot cause immediate health problems.
Is there a limit to the number of X-rays I can get a year?
As of right now, there is no current limit to the number of X-rays a person should be allowed within a year. That being said, the American College of Radiology has reported that a person should limit lifetime diagnostic radiation exposure to the equivalent of about 10,000 chest X-rays but only 25 chest CT scans.
Is it okay to get an X-ray when I am pregnant?
X-rays are typically safe while pregnant; however, it’s essential to take a few precautions, like informing your radiologist if you’re pregnant or if there is a chance you may be pregnant. The chances of an x-ray causing harm to your unborn baby is slim to none.