An X-ray is a short, painless procedure that creates images of the inside body components, especially your bones.

The amount that X-ray beams are absorbed varies based on the density of the material they pass through as they travel through your body. On X-rays, dense substances like bone and metal appear as white. Your lungs air appears black. Grayscale pictures of fat and muscle are used.

A contrast medium, such iodine or barium, is injected into your body during several types of X-ray exams to enhance the clarity of the images.

Why it's done

Many body parts are examined using X-ray technology.

Teeth and Bones

infections and fractures. X-rays typically reveal fractures and infections in bones and teeth clearly.

Arthritis - Your joints' X-rays can show signs of arthritis. Your doctor can tell if your arthritis is getting worse by looking at the X-rays you've had over the years.
Tooth Decay - X-rays are used by dentists to examine your teeth for cavities.
Osteoporosis - You can get specific X-ray exams to determine your bone density.
Bone Cancer - Bone tumors can be seen on X-rays.

Chest

Lung Ailments or Infections - Chest X-rays may reveal evidence of pneumonia, TB, or lung cancer.
Ovarian Cancer - A specific kind of X-ray test called a mammogram is performed to check breast tissue.
Enlarged Heart - On X-rays, this indication of congestive heart failure is very visible.
Blood Vessel Blockages - Iodine-containing contrast agents can be injected to help highlight specific areas of your circulatory system so they can be seen on X-rays.

Abdomen

Digestive System Issues - An enema or drink containing barium, a contrast medium, can assist identify digestive system issues.
Swallowed Objects - An X-ray can locate an object that your child may have ingested, such as a coin or key.