X-ray technology is a popular and effective diagnostic tool used to take pictures of the inside of the body. To date, X-rays have been used to save millions of lives. What many do not realize is that X-rays come from a naturally occurring electromagnetic radiation. The non-invasive imaging tool can be used to take photos of any part of the body, including the head, chest, arms, legs, and feet. These scans can play a critical role in helping your doctor or dental provider identify any irregularities. Below is more information on how X-rays are used and what irregularities they can detect.
What Does an X-ray Show?
X-rays are most frequently used to examine areas of pain or disease. Additionally, X-rays are used prophylactically to confirm teeth and bones are as they should be, ruling out any alternative issues. Some examples of conditions that can be detected with X-rays include:
* Cancers and tumors
* An enlarged heart
* Blockages in a blood vessel
* Fluid in lungs
* Broken or fractured bones
* Dislocated joints
* Tooth decay
* Impacted wisdom teeth
* Foreign objects swallowed or lodged in the body
What Does it Feel Like to Get An X-Ray?
Though it may seem a bit scary, getting an X-ray scan is quick and entirely painless. There is no preparation necessary, other than having to remove metal jewelry beforehand. First, the technician will place you in the position they need to get the best X-ray scan. For example, for a scan of the lungs, you will likely need to be standing and if you have a broken leg or ankle you will likely be laying down. Next, the technician will place a thick fabric-based lead shield in one or more areas around where they want to scan so that those areas are not captured in the scan. Lastly, they will ask you to remain very still and they will snap the picture they need. It is common to take several different scans, potentially with you in different positions, to get the best images to help your provider make an appropriate diagnosis.
Benefits of X-rays
There are many benefits that X-ray visual imaging technology offers. X-rays can be critical to helping medical or dental providers diagnose a disease or condition. Some of the benefits of X-rays, include:
* Non-invasive: X-rays can help diagnose a medical issue or assess treatment progression without the need to physically enter the patient meaning they are quick, easy, and pain free.
* Guiding: X-rays can help guide providers as they install or place devices inside the patient.
* Unexpected discoveries: During an X-ray a pathology can be discovered that may be different from the initial reason for the X-ray.
What Irregularities Can an X-Ray Detect?
X-ray technology is regularly used to take pictures of the inside of the body. If you have a set of symptoms that are bothering you, your provider will likely order an X-ray to help visualize what is going on for diagnostic purposes. Without these images, your provider will likely not be able to diagnose your condition and plan your treatment with confidence. An X-ray can help detect many irregularities, including: broken bones, tumors, and even an object that is lodged inside the body.