A chest x-ray is a photograph-like image of the heart and lungs that uses a small dose of radiation to create a picture. It is one of the most common medical tests performed.
- Heart
- Blood vessels near the heart
- Lungs
- Ribs and other bones
Chest x-rays are done to look for abnormalities of the heart, lungs, bones, or blood vessels in the chest. Your doctor may order a chest x-ray in response to certain symptoms or to help diagnose a medical condition.
Common symptoms requiring a chest x-ray include:
- Bad or persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Chest injury
- Coughing up blood
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Falls
The following conditions can be diagnosed by a chest x-ray:
Chest x-rays are done using a small dose of radiation. A lead apron is used to shield the abdomen and pelvis to minimize the risk of even this small dose of radiation. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, inform your doctor or the x-ray technician. X-rays are generally avoided during the first two trimesters or throughout pregnancy.
Chest x-rays can be performed in a hospital, an outside lab, or doctor’s office. You will be asked to remove all jewelry from the waist up and put on a hospital gown.
There is no need for anesthesia during a chest x-ray.
Pictures are taken from two different views, a side view and a front view. An x-ray technician will position you according to the type of x-ray machine used. Most commonly you will be asked to stand against the x-ray machine with your hands up or to the side. You will be asked to take a deep breath and hold it while the x-ray is being taken. You will also be asked to stay as still as possible when the film is taken. You may notice that the film cartridge feels cool to your skin.
Once the x-rays are completed you are free to go.
The process generally takes 10 to 15 minutes.
The procedure is painless.
None, unless you are pregnant
X-rays do not require hospital stays.
There are no actions to take after x-rays.
A radiologist (a doctor who specializes in x-rays) will evaluate your x-ray and send a report to your doctor. Results are generally available in 1 to 2 days. An abnormal x-ray may require further testing including a chest computed tomography
(CT) scan
or
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
. If an abnormal growth is seen, a
biopsy
may be ordered.
There are no reported complications after this procedure.
Last reviewed December 2008 by Jill Landis, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care
provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a
substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the
advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to
starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a
medical condition.
Copyright © 2004 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
