What is X-Ray?
X-Ray Test
X-rays are high energy electromagnetic radiations that penetrate the human body at a wavelength
of 10 picometres to 10 nanometres. They have been the most common source of imaging over the last few decades because they
help doctors view the inside of your body without making any incisions. Different types of x-rays are used to evaluate different types of diseases and conditions.
You can book an X-ray in Karachi with oladoc by clicking on the book lab test button or by
calling our helpline at
02138140600.
Why is an X-ray needed?
An X-ray is needed to take a closer look at an area where you are feeling pain or discomfort.
It also helps in keeping a check on the progression of a treatment and to keep an eye on
already diagnosed disease. X-rays are usually ordered to evaluate following conditions:
- Infections
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Blocked blood vessels
- Fractures
- Digestive issues
- Enlarged heart
- Bone cancer
- Breast tumor
- Problems within lungs
- Tooth decay
How to prepare for an X-ray?
An X-ray is a standard procedure and doesn’t require much preparation from the patient’s side.
All you need to do is wear loose clothing material and remove any jewellery or other metallic
objects.
For a gastrointestinal x-ray you may be required to fast a few hours prior to your x-ray. So make sure you confirm the required fasting duration with your doctor. Don’t forget to tell your radiologist if you have any metal implants in the body, as these implants can prevent x-ray from going through your body and creating clear images.
How is an X-ray performed?
Only a trained radiologist is capable of performing an X-ray. Once you reach the radiology centre you may
be asked to change into a hospital gown. A contrast dye is given before the procedure in some cases to
improve the quality of images.
Then your radiologist will help position your body in the required manner. You might be asked to lie, sit,
or stand as need be during the procedure. While you stand the technician will capture images from a specialised plate containing x-ray sensors or films.
They use a large camera linked to a steel arm to capture images when they ask you to sit or lie on a specialised plate.
You are supposed to stay still so that images can be taken clearly. The x-ray is over as soon as the radiologist is satisfied
with captured images.
How to read the results of an X-ray?
X-rays are digitally saved on computers and results can be viewed right after the procedure. Typically a radiologist reads and
interprets the results to your doctor who then explains them to you. It is beyond a normal person’s capacity to read results
from an x-ray.
What are the risks of an x-ray?
The following are the risks associated with x-rays:
Even though x-rays expose you to minimal radiation and the benefits from an X-ray outweigh the risks, they are not preferred
during pregnancy. Injection of contrast mediums can cause nausea, hives, itching, lightheadedness, and low blood pressure.
What is the cost of an X-ray?
X-ray cost in Karachi can vary from Rs.500 to Rs.17250 depending on the organ or body part that is being examined.
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