A chest X-ray is a routine procedure done either on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Patients who complain of pain or discomfort in the chest are instructed to undergo a chest X-ray that takes all of three minutes or less to do, especially from clinics and other medical facilities that offer a private X-ray in London. So, what can one really expect from a chest X-ray? What types of ailments can be detected?
Ailments detected by a chest X-ray
- Lung cancer. It is one of the leading causes of death in the world, and it can be detected by a routine chest X-ray. Once lung cancer is suspected in a patient, further tests will be ordered to guarantee that the findings are correct.
- This is a lung infection. One or both lungs can be infected at any given time. It is characterized by persistent coughing for a period of time, and antibiotics are prescribed to get rid of the infection.
- This is a progressive lung disease that can cause problems with breathing for a patient and is usually caused by smoking.
- Broken ribs. They are seen on the X-ray if you have suffered from an injury. If there are one or more broken ribs, it can be difficult to breathe, and it can also be painful. A subsequent treatment to repair the broken bones will be ordered.
- Heart failure. The lack of blood pumped by the heart to the body results in inadequate blood flow to the body which can cause a myriad of other illnesses and can be fatal if not given proper attention and treatment right away.
- This is the accumulation of air between the lungs and the chest wall. It can be painful to breathe if you have this condition.
How is a chest X-ray done?
This procedure is done in a room that has a light indicator outside if the X-ray machine is in operation. This means that radiation from the machine is being emitted and must be avoided by people not needing the procedure, especially pregnant women. If you need a chest X-ray and you are or you suspect that you are pregnant, then you must disclose this information as the radiation can be harmful to the developing baby. The patient is then asked to remove any metal objects on the body so as not to interfere with the results. The chest will be exposed to radiation and an image will be printed on a film.
A chest X-ray, or any type of X-ray for that matter, is non-invasive and painless. You also don’t need prior preparation for the procedure, only the removal of any metal objects on your body, such as a belt buckle, coins, jewellery and bras that are underwired. As soon as the X-ray is done, you can go about your day and wait for the results to be released and have them interpreted by your doctor.
