An X-ray is a procedure that produces images of the inside of your body.
In the procedure, a machine sends X-ray beams through your body.
The resulting images are recorded either on film or by a computer, notesMedlinePlus.
Here is what you need to know as you prepare for an x-ray.
X-rays can examine many parts of the body.
A technician will position your body and the X-ray machine.
You will need to remain still and may have to hold your breath during the X-ray.
Movement can cause blurry images.
The machine will capture images of your body as you sit, stand, or lie still.
The process is painless.
Before an X-ray
Be sure to let your doctor know if youre pregnant or may become pregnant.
Also, tell your doctor if youre using an intrauterine machine (IUD) for birth control.
You may have to remove all jewelry and other metal objects from your body before having an X-ray.
After an X-ray
Typically, you’re able to resume normal activities after an X-ray.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids if you had an X-ray with a contrast medium.
Let your doctor know if youre pregnant, because radiation exposure may not be safe for an unborn baby.
She is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed a residency at Maine Medical Center.
Her goal is to compose helpful articles that readers can easily understand and use to improve their well-being.
She is passionate about healthy living and delivering important medical information through her writing.
Prior to her freelance career, Marks was a supervising producer of medical programming for Ivanhoe Broadcast News.
She is a Telly award winner and Freddie award finalist.
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