Every day at our urgent care facility, we get patients expressing their concerns about the safety of medical X-rays. Unfortunately, there is a lot of paranoia around whether X-ray are safe or not. Today’s advanced equipment minimizes your radiation exposure, and certified radiologists use the least amount of radiation to get you safely and quickly on the road to recovery.

In a medical setting, it’s not uncommon to feel anxious about your safety and well-being — even when getting a simple diagnostic procedure like an X-ray. As such, many people find it helpful to do their own research ahead of time to put their mind at ease. Below, this emergency care facility in Hammond, Illinois is going to discuss everything you should know about medical X-rays.

What Are X-Rays?

X-rays are electromagnetic radiations that pass through the human body to generate shadow-like images of the insides of your body, including organs, tissues, and bones. X-rays help reveal any signs of injury or disease, and they help the medical staff accurately assess your health so they can provide an appropriate solution. Some of the common reasons why you might need an X-ray in Hammond include persistent swelling, joint stiffness, sprains, dislocations, fractures, trouble walking, trouble breathing, and digestive issues.

To X-Ray or Not to X-Ray?

X-ray technology can be used to discover life-threatening conditions and provide vital insights to medical practitioners. When used correctly by a qualified medical professional, and at an appropriate imaging and laboratory facility in Hammond, the benefits of these scans significantly outweigh any risks.

However, when you undergo an X-ray, the human body absorbs some level of high-energy ionizing radiation that’s capable of cell mutation, which could potentially lead to several types of cancers. Abnormally high radiation exposure for a prolonged period can also cause hair loss, skin inflammation, vomiting, fainting, and bleeding.  

This is a risk that progresses with the number of radiation exposures throughout your life. However, the amount radiation you would be exposed to from a basic X-ray is so miniscule that the risk remains extremely low.

There is no set number for how many X-rays are safe in a particular period. However, the American College of Radiology suggests limiting lifetime exposures to about 10,000 X-rays, if possible. Also, it’s not always about the number, but the type of scan that can add to your risk.

Plus, not all diagnostics centers are created equal. To smoothly sail through your medical x-rays in Hammond, Illinois, you’ll want to look for a facility that has an experienced medical imaging team — one with years of experience. Or, if you visit an emergency care facility in Hammond for an X-ray, make sure they are equipped with the latest machines and uphold high ethical standards at the facility.

Special Situations

If you are pregnant, and if your doctor is not aware, you should inform them right away. Although you can undergo an X-ray when expecting, it is best to avoid the procedure whenever possible. It’s always best to discuss your situation with your doctor or radiologist so they can suggest the right course of treatment.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasounds are two common methods that do not involve radiation. Ultrasounds are well-suited for abdominal scanning, while MRI scans are good for assessing the spine, head, and joints.

Do You Need an X-Ray in Hammond, Illinois? Visit the Top-Rated Emergency Care Facility in the Area

The benefits of X-rays and other similar scans overwhelmingly outweigh the risks of radiation exposure. If you are scheduled to undergo a treatment involving an X-ray, you can always speak with a specialist and discuss your concerns.

At NW Indiana ER & Hospital, we perform medical X-rays every day at our state-of-the-art imaging and laboratory facility. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable and certified radiologists. Contact us today at 219-554-9911 today to schedule your medical X-ray in Hammond, Illinois.