When you are experiencing a medical problem, it is necessary to have a diagnostic test to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. One of these tests is a general x-ray. Most people will go for an x-ray at some point in their lives, but few understand what the procedure entails. If you have been prescribed a general x-ray, you might be wondering what it is, how to prepare, and what happens during and after the exam. This blog post seeks to provide you with all essential information about general x-rays.

What is a General X-ray?
General x-rays are one of the most commonly used medical imaging techniques. The procedure uses electromagnetic radiation to produce images of the body. During an x-ray, an invisible beam of ionizing radiation passes through your body. Your tissues and organs will absorb different amounts of radiation, creating a shadow on an x-ray detector. These shadows create images of your body that clinicians can use to determine whether you have a medical condition.

Types of General X-ray
There are several types of general x-rays. Some of the most common include chest x-rays, abdominal x-rays, and skeletal x-rays. Chest x-rays are used to diagnose chest problems, while abdominal x-rays are used to diagnose problems with the digestive system. Skeletal x-rays, on the other hand, are used to imaging bones and joints. Your healthcare provider will determine the type of x-ray you need based on the symptoms you are experiencing.

When Do You Need It?
General x-rays are recommended when one has a medical condition that cannot be diagnosed using physical examination alone. X-rays can be used to detect cancer, pneumonia, bone fractures, and other abnormalities. You may also need an x-ray to track the progress of a medical condition or a surgical treatment.

How to Prepare for a General X-ray?
Preparation for general x-rays is typically straightforward. First, you need to ensure you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t have metal zippers, buttons, or hooks, as these can interfere with the x-ray equipment. You will be asked to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, or other metal objects. Sometimes, you may be required to wear a gown to avoid overlay on the x-ray image. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the exam, depending on the body part being examined.

What to Expect Before, During, and After the Exam?

Before the exam, you will be asked to fill out some paperwork with personal and medical information. Then, you will be taken to the x-ray room, where a technician will position your body part under the x-ray machine. The x-ray machine will be positioned at a specific distance from your body, and the technician may ask you to hold still to avoid blurring the image. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the image is taken. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.

After the exam, you can return to your normal activities. There are no side effects of general x-ray examinations. However, if you experience any discomfort or allergic reactions to the contrast agents used in some x-rays, it’s advisable to contact your physician immediately.