What is an x-ray?

An x-ray is a type of radiation used to create a picture of the inside of your body. As x-ray beams pass through your body, they are absorbed differently by various structures in the body such as your bones and soft tissues. This is used to create an image. X-ray imaging is also known as radiography.

There are several different types of x-rays, such as:

• plain radiography
• computed tomography, known as CT scanning
• fluoroscopy — produces moving images of an organ
• mammography — an x-ray of your breasts
• angiography — an x-ray of your blood vessels
• bone density scan (DEXA) — helps check for low bone density and diagnose osteoporosis

When is an x-ray used?

X-rays are used to diagnose disease and injury, including:

• bone and joint conditions — such as fractures, dislocations, bone disease, arthritis and osteoporosis
• lung and chest conditions — such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure
• blood vessel problems — such as an aortic aneurysm (a bulge in the aorta)
• cancer
• bowel disease
• tooth decay
• foreign objects — such as when a child accidentally swallows an object

Is an x-ray safe?

An x-ray uses a small amount of radiation to create an image. Some types of x-rays, such as CT scanning and angiography, use higher doses of radiation than plain x-rays. The amount of radiation used is unlikely to cause any serious problems. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned.

Generally, the benefit of the x-ray in diagnosing a health condition is greater than the risk of the radiation.

Where can I get an x-ray?

X-rays can be done in:

• public hospitals
• private hospitals
• private radiology clinics

What happens during an x-ray?

A plain x-ray is painless and the process takes less than 15 minutes. X-rays are done by a radiographer or a medical imaging technologist.

A radiologist (doctor trained to interpret x-rays) will review your images. Your doctor will be sent a report.

During the procedure you'll be asked to lie, sit or stand, depending on the part of the body being x-rayed. It is important not to move during the x-ray. You may be asked to take a deep breath and hold it while the images are taken.

A protective shield or apron may be used to protect parts of your body that are not being x-rayed.

For children, a parent or carer can usually stay with them during the x-ray. This will help reassure them and keep them still.

Some types of x-rays use injected or swallowed contrast dye (contrast media) to improve the images.

What is contrast dye?

Contrast dye (contrast medium) is a substance that can be used during x-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, angiography and other tests. It helps to improve the contrast in the x-ray images. This makes it easier to see disease or damaged areas.

The contrast dye may be given to you orally (by mouth) or by injection. Commonly used contrast dyes contain iodine or barium.

What does an x-ray feel like?

An x-ray usually does not cause pain or discomfort.

If contrast dye is used, you may experience:

• a warm feeling that spreads through your body after an injection
• feeling like you've urinated (wet yourself), but you haven't

Tips on how to prepare for an x-ray include:

• bring the referral from your doctor
• tell the radiographer if you have kidney problems or have allergies to contrast dye
• be prepared to remove any jewellery
• change into a hospital gown if needed
• follow any instructions given to you by your doctor or radiographer

You should tell the doctor if you are or may be pregnant. X-rays use radiation that can be harmful to your baby. Your doctor will assess whether you need the x-ray and can discuss with you any risks.

Are there any side effects or complications of an x-ray?

During an x-ray, you are exposed to radiation, but the amount is small and unlikely to cause harm. Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor.

There are possible risks from contrast dyes. People with kidney problems have greater risks from contrast dye than other people. If you have kidney problems and need an x-ray using contrast dye, talk to your doctor first.

Some people have an allergic reaction to iodine-containing contrast dye. Reactions can be mild, moderate or severe. Anyone can have an allergic reaction, even if they have not had problems before.

Are there alternatives to x-rays?

Yes, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used for certain medical conditions and for people considered high-risk, such as children and people who are more sensitive to radiation. These imaging methods do not use radiation.

During pregnancy, x-rays expose your baby to radiation. Any harm to your baby will depend on:

• the radiation dose — smaller doses (amounts) are safer
• the stage of your pregnancy — the further along you are in your pregnancy, the better
• the part of your body being imaged

It's best to avoid exposing your abdomen (tummy) to radiation if you are pregnant.

Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Resources and support

Inside Radiology has more information about x-rays and other medical imaging.

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) has information on the health effects of exposure to x-rays.

Use these 5 questions to ask your doctor on the Choosing Wisely Australia website to make sure you get the right care.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.