X-rays can detect problems with your joints.
X-rays are tools used for diagnosing a patient's medical condition. They work by sending radiation through the patient's body. The radiation is absorbed differently, depending on whether it is passing through bone, muscle or air. This allows doctors to see if there are any medical problems. X-rays are painless and quick. There are some risks associated with the radiation; however, Medline Plus advises that the potential benefits typically outweigh the risks.
Diagnosis
X-rays are helpful for providing a patient with an accurate diagnosis. They can detect fractures, tooth decay and arthritis. They can, even, pinpoint an infection in your bones, teeth or lungs. X-rays can tell you if you are at risk for osteoporosis or if you have developed bone cancer. Some x-rays can help detect problems with the blood vessels. They can also tell your doctor if you have an enlarged heart. Women may have an x-ray called a mammogram, which helps detect breast cancer.
X-rays can even help your pet. If your dog has swallowed a key or other inedible object, your vet can pinpoint its location with an x-ray.
Radiation
X-rays use radiation to detect abnormalities. Radiation may result in cell mutations, which increase the risk for cancer. However, the Mayo Clinic assures its patients that the risk due to radiation exposure is very small. Possible damage to the cells is minimal, due to the very small amount of radiation that is used. According to NHS Choices, an x-ray targeting your head gives you a one in a 100,000 to a million chance for resulting in cancer. However, NHS Choices cautions that an x-ray that uses a contrast dye has a higher risk of resulting in cancer (one in 1,000 to 10,000 chance).
Contrast Dye
Some x-rays may use a contrast fluid to help detect any abnormalities. Not all people experience side effects from them. However, the Mayo Clinic lists these possible side effects: nausea, hives, itching, warmth or flushing, lightheadedness, and a metallic taste in your mouth. More serious reactions are rare; they may include cardiac arrest, extreme low blood pressure and anaphylactic shock.
Pregnancy
According to the Mayo Clinic, x-rays pose a small risk of radiation exposure to an unborn child. This is not generally a cause for concern. However, a doctor may try to avoid using an x-ray on the womb or abdomen area. She may use an ultrasound test instead. Before having an x-ray, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
Tags: Mayo Clinic, cancer However, detect abnormalities, detect problems, detect problems with, help detect
