X-Ray

An X-ray is a quick, painless test that produces images of the structures inside your body — particularly your bones.

X-ray beams pass through your body, and they are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the material they pass through. Dense materials, such as bone and metal, show up as white on X-rays. The air in your lungs shows up as black. Fat and muscle appear as shades of gray.

X-ray technology is used to examine many parts of the body.

• Fractures and infections. In most cases, fractures and infections in bones and teeth show up clearly on X-rays.
• Arthritis. X-rays of your joints can reveal evidence of arthritis. X-rays taken over the years can help your doctor determine if your arthritis is worsening.
• Dental decay. Dentists use X-rays to check for cavities in your teeth.
• Osteoporosis. Special types of X-ray tests can measure your bone density.
• Bone cancer. X-rays can reveal bone tumors.

• Lung infections or conditions. Evidence of pneumonia, tuberculosis or lung cancer can show up on chest X-rays.
• Breast cancer. Mammography is a special type of X-ray test used to examine breast tissue.
• Enlarged heart. This sign of congestive heart failure shows up clearly on X-rays.
• Blocked blood vessels. Injecting a contrast material that contains iodine can help highlight sections of your circulatory system to make them visible on X-rays.

• Digestive tract problems. Barium, a contrast medium delivered in a drink or an enema, can help reveal problems in your digestive system.
• Swallowed items. If your child has swallowed something such as a key or a coin, an X-ray can show the location of that object.