"As other imaging techniques become readily available, the role for plain X-rays has diminished," says Dr. Robert Zimmerman, the executive vice-chair of radiology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Additionally, X-rays are sometimes used to obtain images of the digestive track or endocrine systems. If you're having a problem in one of these areas, a doctor will have you drink a special liquid (usually barium) that reflects the X-rays just like bone. So, a subsequent X-ray of that area will trace the liquid through the body part in question. This procedure is still best for finding air in the abdomen and diagnosing pneumonia, according to Zimmerman.
While being overexposed to X-rays can cause health problems, the amount of X-rays that are used in one session is far from enough to cause any problems. However, because a doctor may be using X-rays on a routine basis, he generally steps outside of the room while the image is being taken. Sometimes, a doctor will place a lead shield on the part of the body that is not being X-rayed to prevent excess exposure. This heavy smock ensures that X-rays are only entering the part of your body necessary to obtain a diagnosis.
As with any medical procedure, inform your doctor if there is any possibility that you might be pregnant so extra precautions can be taken.
