An X-ray is a quick, painless test that produces images of the structures inside your body, particularly your bones. The X-ray machine produces safe level of radiation through your body, and they are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the material they pass through. Dense materials, such as bone and metal, show up as white on X-rays. The air in your lungs shows up as black. Fat and muscle appear as shades of grey. For some types of X-ray tests, a contrast medium such as iodine or barium is introduced into your body to provide greater detail on the images. Some people worry that X-rays aren’t safe because radiation exposure can cause cell mutations that may lead to cancer. The amount of radiation you’re exposed to during an X-ray depends on the tissue or organ being examined. However, radiation exposure from an X-ray is negligible, and the benefits from these tests far outweigh the risks.

Why an X-ray is done?

• Fractures and infections – In most cases, fractures and infections in bones and teeth show up clearly on X-rays.
• Arthritis – X-rays of your joints can reveal evidence of arthritis. X-rays taken over the years can help your doctor determine if your arthritis is worsening.
• Dental decay – Dentists use X-rays to check for cavities in your teeth.
• Osteoporosis – Special types of X-ray tests can measure your bone density.
• Bone cancer – X-rays can reveal bone tumors.
• Lung infections or conditions – Evidence of pneumonia, tuberculosis or lung cancer can show up on chest X-rays.
• Breast cancer – Mammography is a special type of X-ray test used to examine breast tissue.
• Enlarged heart – This sign of congestive heart failure shows up clearly on X-rays.
• Blocked blood vessels – Injecting a contrast material that contains iodine can help highlight sections of your circulatory system to make them visible on X-rays
• Digestive tract problems – Barium, a contrast medium delivered in a drink or an enema, can help reveal problems in your digestive system.
• Swallowed items – If your child has swallowed something such as a key or a coin, an X-ray can show the location of that object.

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