Why have I b​een asked to have a chest x-ray?

There are several possible reasons that you may have been asked to have a chest x-ray:

• ​to look for evidence of Tuberculosis (TB) disease in your lungs
• if you have been in contact with someone with active TB
• if you have a positive screening test for TB infection (by Tuberculin Skin Test or Interferon blood test)
• if you are a recent immigrant who had an abnormal chest x-ray prior to migration
• to monitor response to TB treatment
• other reasons, as requested by your doctor.

Are x-rays h​armful?

The amount of radiation used in x-rays is small. The amount of radiation you are exposed to by having an x-ray is similar to that received by taking a 10-15 hour plane flight. It is not dangerous for you to have regular chest x-rays. In fact, it is more dangerous for you and the community if you do have a problem with your lungs and it is not detected early by x-ray.

If you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, please tell the nurse in the clinic and the radiographer before your x-ray. In m​ost cases, the x-ray can be delayed until after the baby is born. However, if it is still necessary to have a chest x-ray while pregnant, a special lead shield will be put around your body to protect your baby from the x-rays.

Breastfeeding mothers can safely continue to feed their baby without risk to their milk or the baby.​

What happen​s when I have the chest x-ray?

A qualified radiographer will take your x-ray. You may be asked to remove some items of jewellery, for example necklaces or earrings. Occasionally beading or buttons can also be seen on the film and if this is the case, you may be asked to change into a gown to have your chest x-ray.

If your radiographer is a male and your religion does not permit you to be in the room with him on your own, please ask for a female member of staff to be present.

While the x-ray is being taken, you will be asked to take a deep breath in and hold it while the x-ray picture is taken. You should also remain still.​

What happens ​after I have the chest x-ray?

After the chest x-ray is taken, you will be asked to wait until the radiographer ensures that the picture has printed satisfactorily. Unless you need to wait to see a doctor or to have other tests, you will then be told that you can leave the clinic.

The x-ray will be given to a doctor to be reported on. It may sometimes take a few days for it to be reported on. The person who takes your x-ray (radiographer) does not report on x-rays and so cannot give you your result.

After your chest x-ray is reported on, a decision is made as to whether you will require further x-rays, check-ups or treatment. Each individual case is different and so questions on your follow-up cannot always be answered until the x-ray is reviewed.

If a significant problem is seen on your chest x-ray, you will be contacted immediately and asked to return to the clinic for a doctor’s review and/or further tests.​

Contact your loc​​al TB service for more information​

To find your local TB service, visit Accessing your local TB service.