| |
Chest X-Ray
View other tests
What is the
test?
Doctors have used x-rays for over a century
to see inside the body in order to diagnose a
variety of problems, including cancer, fractures,
and pneumonia. During this test, you usually
stand in front of a photographic plate while
a machine sends x-rays, a type of radiation,
through your body. Originally, a photograph of
internal structures was produced on film; nowadays,
the image created by the x-rays goes directly
into a computer. Dense structures, such as bone,
appear white on the x-ray films because they
absorb many of the x-ray beams and block them
from reaching the plate (see Figure 16). Hollow
body parts, such as lungs, appear dark because
x-rays pass through them. (In some other countries,
like the United Kingdom, the colors are reversed,
and dense structures are black.)
Back x-rays and chest x-rays are among the most
common conventional x-ray tests. You should not
have an x-ray if you're pregnant, because radiation
can be harmful to a developing fetus.
A chest x-ray provides black-and-white images
of your lungs, ribs, heart, and diaphragm.
Back to top >
How
do I prepare for the test?
You are usually asked to remove all clothing,
undergarments, and jewelry above your waist,
and to wear a hospital gown.
Back to top >
What
happens when the test is performed?
Chest x-rays usually are taken while you are
standing. A technician positions you against
the photographic plate (which looks like a large
board) to obtain the clearest pictures. He or
she takes pictures from the front and from one
side while asking you to take in a deep breath
just before each picture. The technician leaves
the room or stands behind a screen while the
x-rays are taken.
Back to top >
What
risks are there from the test?
The amount of radiation from x-ray tests is
too small to be likely to cause any harm. However,
if you're pregnant, talk to your doctor. Radiation
may be harmful to a developing fetus.
Back to top >
Must
I do anything special after the test is over?
No.
Back to top >
How
long is it before the result of the test is
known?
Although digital images may be available immediately,
it will take additional time for a doctor to
examine and interpret them. You'll probably get
the results later in the day.
Back to top >
View
other test |
|
HOME
MY
CART
