Overview
An X-ray is a medical imaging test that makes pictures of structures inside the body. It is often used to check bones, joints, the chest, teeth, and sometimes the abdomen. The test is usually done in a clinic, dental office, imaging center, or hospital. Most X-rays take only a few minutes.
Who Is Affected
People of all ages may need an X-ray, including children and older adults. A healthcare professional may order one after an injury, for ongoing symptoms, or as part of dental or hospital care. Children and pregnant people may need extra attention to limit radiation exposure when possible. The need for the test depends on the medical question being asked.
Prevention
You cannot always prevent needing an X-ray, because it is a tool used to investigate a health concern. You can help reduce unnecessary exposure by keeping a record of major imaging tests and sharing it with your healthcare team. Imaging staff aim to use the lowest radiation dose needed to get useful images. Let the team know about pregnancy, possible pregnancy, or prior imaging when relevant.
Diagnosis and Tests
During an X-ray, you may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down while the machine takes pictures. You may need to hold still or briefly hold your breath so the image is clear. In some cases, more than one view is taken from different angles. A radiologist or other trained healthcare professional reviews the images and sends a report to the clinician who ordered the test.
Living With It
Having an X-ray usually does not affect daily life after the test, and most people can return to normal activities right away. The main next step is understanding the result and what it means for your care. Ask when and how you will get your results, and what follow-up may be needed. If you have frequent imaging, discuss ways to keep records and avoid duplicate tests.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical care if you have symptoms that may need imaging, such as significant pain after an injury, trouble breathing, chest pain, a possible broken bone, or severe dental pain. An X-ray itself is not usually the urgent issue; the reason for the test may be. Contact a healthcare professional if you do not understand why the test was ordered or what the results mean. Tell the imaging team before the test if you are or might be pregnant.
When It May Be an Emergency
The need for an X-ray can be part of an emergency if there is a major injury or a serious symptom. Get urgent help right away for severe trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, sudden chest pain, loss of consciousness, signs of stroke, or major trauma such as a road traffic crash or a bad fall. Emergency teams will decide whether an X-ray or another imaging test is needed.
Questions to Ask a Healthcare Professional
You may want to ask: Why do I need this X-ray? What part of the body is being checked? Are there other tests that might also be considered? When will I get the results, and who will explain them to me? If I am pregnant or think I might be, how does that affect the plan?