What are X-ray lights for?

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to visible light. Unlike light, however, x-rays have higher energy and can pass through most objects, including the body. Medical x-rays are used to generate images of tissues and structures inside the body.

What does bright white mean on an X-ray?

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.

How does a CT scanner work?

A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body.

What is the difference between a CT scan and an X-ray?

An X-ray is built to examine dense tissues, while a CT scan is better able to capture bones, soft tissues and blood vessels all at the same time. X-ray equipment is much smaller and less complex than a CT scan since a CT scanner needs to rotate around the patient being scanned.

Does infection show on CT scan?

A CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed, three-dimensional, cross-sectional images of your tissues and internal organs. A CT scan reveal bone or joint damage caused by an infection.

How do you know where your body is infected?

Cuts

1. redness in the area of the wound, particularly if it spreads or forms a red streak.
2. swelling or warmth in the affected area.
3. pain or tenderness at or around the site of the wound.
4. pus forming around or oozing from the wound.
5. fever.
6. swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.
7. delayed wound healing.

Why would a doctor take an X-ray of your body?

If your doctor or dentist says you need an X-ray, it’s time for your bones to smile for the camera. An X-ray takes a picture of the inside of your body. Doctors use them to diagnose: Broken bones. Dislocated joints. Arthritis. Abdominal pain, in some instances. Cancer.

Will a radiologist look at my X-rays?

A radiologist will look at your X-rays. A radiologist is a medical doctor who is specially trained in reading and understanding the results of imaging scans like X-rays. X-ray images are digital, so a radiologist can see them on a screen within minutes in an emergency.

Why would a doctor order an MRI instead of an xray?

Your doctor may order an MRI instead of an X-ray to diagnose injuries like a ligament tear in your knee or torn rotator cuff in your shoulder. MRIs can also show tiny fractures or bone bruises, which may not appear on an X-ray, and it is often used to diagnose a broken hip.

What can I do while waiting for my X-ray results?

After your X-ray images have been collected, you can change back into your regular clothes. Depending on your condition, your doctor may advise you to go about your normal activities or rest while you’re waiting for your results. Your results may be available on the same day as your procedure, or later.