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X-RAY FOR CHILDREN
Category: Child Health
Abstract : X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that occurs naturally in the environment. Similar to light or radio waves, X-rays are invisible. However, X-rays are a higher form of energy that enable them to penetrate objects easily. X-rays used for health care purposes are artificially produced. When these X-rays strike a piece of photographic film, they can produce an image of structures in the
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that occurs naturally in the environment. Similar to light or radio waves, X-rays are invisible. However, X-rays are a higher form of energy that enable them to penetrate objects easily. X-rays used for health care purposes are artificially produced. When these X-rays strike a piece of photographic film, they can produce an image of structures in the human body.
X-ray procedures are painless and help doctors to determine the site and extent of injury or illness without having to perform surgery. The test can be performed in the doctor?s office or in a hospital radiology department. Depending on the type of X-ray technique, nearly every part of the body can be viewed, including the activity of vital organs.
On the day of the examination, your child will probably be asked to undress the area of the body that is to be examined. He or she will be given a gown to wear. Be sure that your child has removed all jewelry and metal objects that would interfere with the test. During the exam, your child will be asked to remain still and to hold his or her breath; movement can cause the X-ray image to become blurred on the film. If you have an infant or a small child, special restraints may be used to help your child be still. You may be allowed to remain with your child during the test. The test can take as little as 5 minutes or up to an hour depending on the part of the body to be viewed. At least two views are taken. The film is checked for accuracy and then reviewed by a radiologist who reports to the referring physician.
Your doctor will give you special instructions for care. The type of care required after the procedure will depend on the type of procedure done. Most likely, your child will be able to return to normal activity following the procedure.
Risks : X-ray procedures are a relatively safe way to diagnose injury or illness. Some studies have shown that X-ray techniques can alter genetic material in cells and cause mutations that might promote cancer. However, with improvements in X-ray technology, the amount of artificial energy used in most diagnostic imaging procedures is so small that the risk is extremely low. If you have questions about X-rays procedures and the effects, consult your healthcare provider.
Pregnant women and those with pacemaker implants or other devices should inform their doctors of these pre-existing conditions prior to any X-ray or imaging procedure
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