X-ray is a type of exam used to look inside the body, without having to make any kind of cut on the skin. There are several types of X-rays, which allow you to observe different types of tissues, but the most used are X-rays to look at bones or breast tissue.
Thus, the doctor can request this exam to examine a certain area of the body, where there is some kind of pain or discomfort, to assess whether there is any change and, thus, be able to arrive at a diagnosis such as:
- Bone fractures; Infections; Osteoporosis; Tumors; Enlarged heart; Changes in the lung, such as pneumonia.
In addition, this type of examination can also be used when swallowing some type of object, for example, to identify the location where it is and allow the doctor to choose the best technique to remove it.
How X-Ray Works
To do an X-ray, it is necessary to place the body part to be examined, between a machine that produces the X-rays and a hard film plate.
Since the X-ray is a type of radiation that can easily pass through the skin, soft tissues and air, but is absorbed by the hardest tissues, such as bones, only the rays that pass through reach the film plate. When this happens, the rays that managed to pass cause a reaction in the silver of the film that turns it black.
Thus, when the film is developed, the soft parts and air appear in black, while the harder fabrics are white. When a specialized image technician evaluates the film, he is able to refer to the present changes, allowing the doctor to arrive at a diagnosis.
What are the main types
Depending on the location to be evaluated, there are different types of X-rays:
- Chest X-ray: it is used especially when you have symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or persistent cough, to assess whether there are changes in the ribs, lungs or heart; Dental X-ray: it is widely used by the dentist to observe in detail the teeth and the structures of the mouth that hold the teeth, allowing to have an image of the inside of the gums. See when it should be done; Renal x-ray: can be ordered when there are symptoms such as abdominal pain, pain when urinating or any type of kidney-related changes and can help diagnose kidney stones or the presence of tumors, for example.
In some types of X-rays, the imaging technician may need to use some type of contrast, which is a liquid that allows you to observe some body structures in greater detail. The contrast can be injected directly into the vein, swallowed or placed as an enema into the intestine, depending on the part of the body that is to be evaluated.
How to prepare for an X-ray
There is usually no special type of preparation for making an X-ray, however, it is advisable to wear loose fitting and comfortable clothing, especially where the X-ray will be necessary.
People with metallic implants or prostheses should inform the technician or doctor, as this type of material can alter the image or cover the places to be observed.
In case you need to have an abdominal X-ray or gastrointestinal tract, the doctor may recommend fasting, depending on what you want to evaluate.
Possible risks of X-ray
The radiation released by X-rays is very low and, therefore, this test is considered safe for most adults, with no risk of cancer. However, if you need to use any type of contrast, there is an increased risk of side effects such as:
- Red spots on the skin; Intense itching; Nausea; Feeling faint; Metallic flavor in the mouth.
These effects are normal, however, if they become very intense or if breathing becomes difficult, they can be a sign of a serious allergic reaction and, in such cases, it is important to inform the technician immediately.
In the case of pregnant women and children, X-rays should be avoided, and preference should be given to other types of tests, as radiation can cause changes in the fetus or in the children's growth process. Check how many X-rays the pregnant woman can do.
