What is an X-ray?
An X-ray is a type of medical imaging that uses radiation to take pictures of the inside of your body. Most people use the term “X-ray” to mean a plain radiograph (plain film), or just one image. But X-rays are also the type of radiation that imaging machines use to create pictures. X-ray radiation is also used in other types of medical imaging, like CT scans, to get many images that are interpreted by a computer to form 3D pictures. This piece will focus on plain X-rays.
How do I prepare for an X-ray?
Preparation for an X-ray depends on the type of X-ray you’re getting. Your provider may ask you to:
- Avoid using lotions, creams, or perfume. These can cause shadows on your X-rays and make the results inaccurate.
- Remove metal objects like jewelry, hairpins, or hearing aids. Metal can interfere with X-rays and make the results inaccurate.
- Stop eating or drinking several hours beforehand.
- Wear comfortable clothing or change into a gown before the X-ray.
- Tell your healthcare provider about your health history, allergies, and any medications you’re taking. If you’re pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding (chestfeeding), tell your provider before getting an X-ray. If you’re getting an X-ray with contrast, let your provider know if you have a kidney condition.