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X-rays
X-rays were discovered in 1895 and have become very useful
in diagnosing medical problems. X-rays have the ability to
pass through solid material. When they pass through a person's
body onto a film behind them they create a picture of the
inside of the body. Bones appear white, air is black and other
organs and structures will be shades of grey, depending on
their density. The denser the object the x-rays have to pass
through, the lighter the image.
X-rays can now be captured
on computer plates and viewed on computer screens and sent
to the referring doctor by e-mail or internet.
X-rays are just one of the services provided by the medical
imaging services. Others include CAT scans (computed axial
tomogram), ultrasounds, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging), fluoroscopy, and mammography.
If you require an x-ray...
... you must tell the person taking
the x-ray if you suspect or know you are pregnant, have an
IUD inserted, or have had a barium contrast media x-ray in
the last four days. Some medications may interfere with the results,
so let them know if you are taking any.
When you have an x-ray, you are exposed to low levels of radiation.
The amount of radiation you are exposed to is the minimum
amount needed to produce a satisfactory image. Most experts
agree that the risk is low compared to the benefits. Pregnant
women and children are more sensitive to radiation.
In the medical imaging department, there may be a number of
staff, including radiographers (technicians who operate the
equipment) and radiologists (the doctors who provide a diagnosis
by reading the x-ray).
Where can I get more information?
Talk to your general practitioner or contact the medical imaging department of your local hospital or a private radiography.
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