Mesothelioma TreatmentDiagnosis
X-Rays
Nearly everyone's had an x-ray at some time during their life. Maybe you broke an arm when you were a child or required a chest x-ray for a job opportunity. X-rays have been around for decades and were considered quite remarkable when the technology was first introduced. This imaging process has long been assisting doctors in proper diagnosis of illnesses like cancer. X-rays also help determine treatment options.
A lung x-ray may be the first diagnostic tool ordered for you if your doctor believes you may have mesothelioma. X-rays have long been used for exploring the chest area of those with suspected lung diseases. Doctors can use the x-ray to pinpoint the area of the disease and to determine whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. On a chest x-ray, cancer appears as a lighter color than tissue that is considered normal.
How do X-Rays Work?
An x-ray machine works by producing a beam by use of a tube that is aimed at the part of the body to be examined - in this case, the chest. A small burst of radiation passes through the body and an image is recorded on film or on a special kind of plate. No pain is associated with x-rays and they are safe for all but pregnant women.
Preparing for an X-Ray
Little or no preparation is needed for x-rays. You will be asked to stand, sit, or lie on a table (depending on the type of x-ray being taken) between the x-ray machine and the plate or film. The technologist may need to position your body so that they can take the best picture possible, eliminating the need to repeat the x-ray. They will then move to a protective control booth to avoid exposure to the radiation being produced. You will then be asked to hold your breath so that your body is still. Motion may cause blurry photos and the need to shoot the x-ray again. Generally, the process takes just a few minutes and is not scary.
More complicated x-rays may require the use of a contrast dye, but chest x-rays are simple and pain-free.
Results
If necessary, the results of an x-ray can be viewed immediately. Most likely, however, a radiologist will read your x-rays and send the results to your doctor in a few days.
Are X-rays Dangerous?
The risks of being harmed by an x-ray (unless youre pregnant) are extremely small and the radiation presents no danger as the levels are very low. The advantages of modern-day x-rays outweigh the minimal risks that may be present.
