Understanding an X-ray
An X-ray is an imaging test that a medical professional can use to diagnose a condition or an injury. It’s non-invasive and requires you to sit, stand or lie still for a short time while the machine uses a small dose of radiation to take a picture of the affected area. While radiation may sound scary, there is radiation around us every day, and a typical X-ray delivers as little radiation as you would receive going through your daily routine for three days.
When is an X-ray necessary?
X-rays are often used for fractures or other chest or abdominal conditions. For instance, they can even diagnose pneumonia, or help determine if a child has swallowed something that he or she shouldn’t have.
What are X-ray alternatives?
There are other types of technology that a doctor may use to look inside your body.
- CT (computed tomography) scan uses X-ray waves, but delivers an image with a heightened level of detail.
- An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses radio waves and strong magnetic fields to create images of the body. Internal organs can be viewed using MRIs.
- Ultrasounds use high frequency sound waves to create images from inside of the body. Because ultrasounds are considered safe during pregnancy, they are generally used for imaging throughout gestation instead of X-rays.
While the other above imaging options are not available in vybe facilities, vybe urgent care offers X-ray services at each of our locations. If you think you might have an injury or condition that requires an X-ray, stop by your local vybe urgent care and be seen today. We’ll provide you with a digital copy of your results and are always happy to share them electronically with another provider or specialist at your request.
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With convenient Philadelphia area locations, stop by a local vybe urgent care today, and we’ll get you back on your feet.
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