What are the risks of an X-ray examination?
December 17, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Helma Rothwiller
Dear Radiologist,
My name is Felix Mattes and I have some concerns regarding an upcoming X-ray examination. I have heard that X-rays can be harmful to health and I am wondering what risks are associated with such an examination.
My current situation is as follows: My doctor has prescribed me an X-ray examination as he needs further information about my health. However, I am worried because I am not sure how safe this examination really is and what consequences it could have for me.
The current state is that I feel uncertain and would like to have more information about the potential risks of an X-ray examination. I want to make sure that I am well informed before undergoing this examination.
My concerns mainly revolve around the fact that X-rays can cause cancer and I am afraid of experiencing long-term health damage. I also wonder if there are possible alternatives to the X-ray examination that may pose less risks.
Therefore, my question to you as an expert is: What risks are associated with an X-ray examination and how can I best protect myself? Are there possible alternatives to the X-ray examination that could be considered in my case?
Thank you in advance for your time and expertise, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Felix Mattes
Dear Mr. Mattes,
I understand your concerns regarding an upcoming X-ray examination and would like to address your questions in detail.
First of all, it is important to understand that X-rays are indeed ionizing radiation and can potentially be harmful to health. However, the radiation dose used in an X-ray examination is usually very low, and the risk of harmful effects is accordingly low. Modern X-ray machines are designed to reduce the radiation dose to the necessary minimum.
The most common risks of an X-ray examination are skin redness (similar to a sunburn) at the irradiated site and the possibility of a hypersensitivity reaction to the contrast agent, if used. In very rare cases, radiation-induced tissue damage can occur, but this usually only occurs at very high radiation doses.
To protect yourself as best as possible, it is important to provide the medical staff with all relevant information about your health and possible pregnancies. Pregnant women should generally not undergo X-ray examinations unless there is an urgent medical necessity.
There are actually alternatives to X-ray examinations, depending on the information your doctor needs. For example, ultrasound or MRI examinations can replace X-rays in some cases. These imaging techniques do not use ionizing radiation and are considered safer in terms of the risk of radiation damage.
I recommend discussing your concerns with your treating doctor and discussing possible alternatives to the X-ray examination. He will be able to choose the best diagnostic method for your individual situation.
I hope that I could help you with this information and I am available for further questions.
Best regards,
Helma Rothwiller
