X-Rays: MedlinePlus Summary

Basics of X-Rays

• What are X-Rays?

  • A type of electromagnetic radiation used to create images of the inside of the body.
  • Images display different tissues in varying shades of black and white.
    • Calcium in bones absorbs the most x-rays, appearing white.
    • Fat and soft tissues absorb less, appearing gray.
    • Air absorbs the least, making lungs appear black.

• Common Uses

  • Diagnosing fractures (broken bones).
  • Detecting pneumonia via chest X-rays.
  • Mammograms for breast cancer detection.

• Radiation Exposure

  • Minimal radiation exposure, comparable to 10 days of natural environmental exposure.
  • Protective measures include lead aprons.

Detailed Information

Start Here

• Resources
  • Medical X-Ray Imaging (FDA)
  • Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Related Issues

• Contrast Materials
  • Use in various X-ray procedures to improve image clarity.
• Radiation Dose Information
  • Understanding radiation exposure during X-ray and CT exams.

Specific X-Ray Types

• Abdominal X-Ray
• Bone Density Scan
• Chest X-Ray (Radiography)
• Fluoroscopy
• Dental X-Rays

Specialized Procedures

• Angiography
  • Includes Aortic and Cerebral angiography.
• GI Series
  • Upper and Lower GI tract imaging.

Patient Resources

• Videos and Tutorials
  • Educational videos on Chest X-Rays.

Research and References

• Journal Articles
  • Articles available through MEDLINE/PubMed.

Expert and Patient Resources

• Find an Expert
  • Resources from the FDA and RadiologyInfo.
• Children's Safety
  • Guides on keeping children still during exams and radiation safety.

Considerations for Women

• Galactography and Mammography
  • Information and procedures specifically related to women's health.

Patient Handouts

• Informational Handouts
  • Available for various X-ray procedures including Barium Enema, Bone X-Ray, etc.

Disclaimers

• MedlinePlus provides health information but does not substitute for professional medical advice.

Additional Resources

• Related Health Topics such as CT Scans and Diagnostic Imaging.
• Information is available in multiple languages.