Digital X-ray is the most common method of examining bones and some organs to determine the source of injury. X-rays are often prescribed after an accident or when bones are damaged. To gain a better understanding of what is happening inside the body, radiology imaging such CT scanners and MRI scanners. Radiation released into the body after an X-ray is lower than what people absorb from natural sources, which is why patients who undergo an X-ray report no pain or radiation damage.. In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about X-rays to help you stay calm during medical procedures. 

What Are X-Rays and What Do They Do?

X-rays are electromagnetic waves released into the body that reflect a shadow-like image of bones and some organs. These images can show signs of injury or organ damage and help doctors pinpoint the source of uneasiness for the patient.  The body absorbs some of the radiation from the Digital X-ray machines. However, this amount is considerably lower than what people absorb from the sun and other natural sources. 

How Radiation Affects the Patient's Body?

Most diagnostic practices don't harm the body. However, higher radiation could potentially lead to illness. A higher dose of radiation could mean higher chances of developing an illness - the relationship is linear. There are no reports of radiation exposure causing skin disease, cancer or other fatal illness related to radiation. However, diagnostic X-rays and nuclear medication might lead to cancer. 

How Much Radiation Is Acceptable for the Patient?

There are no limits of radiation exposure acceptable for the patient if the doctor has prescribed and justified a particular diagnosis. However, constants attempts are made to reduce patient's exposure to radiation and X-rays. But this does not mean you should avoid getting an X-ray if your doctor has prescribed it because, in most cases, the doctor can't determine your illness without looking inside your body. 

Are X-Rays Safe?

The adverse effects of radiation from X-rays are very rare. There aren't many patients that reported cancer or any other diseases immediately after going an X-ray. Moreover, the radiation levels of an X-ray are very low. Plus, this radiation is released easily by the body in the form of sweat. However, the theoretical possibility of developing cancer or any other disease from X-ray radiation cannot be ruled out. Regardless, there is no practical evidence of X-rays causing fatal disease among patients. 

Can I Avoid Unnecessary Exposure to Radiation? 

Doctors try their best to limit patient exposure to unwanted radiation. That is why you should always tell your doctor about the last time you undergo an X-ray. Plus, sharing your previous recent reports with the doctor could help determine the source of illness and avoid going for an X-ray. 

Final Thoughts 

X-rays are not as dangerous as people perceive them. In fact, in some cases, an X-ray is the only way to understand what's wrong with the patient. Moreover, X-rays helps doctors determine the right source of illness, eliminating the need for regular checkups and the chances of prescribing the wrong medicine.