X-Ray

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Chest x-ray is used to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall and may be used to help diagnose shortness of breath, persistent cough, fever, chest pain or injury. It may also be used to help diagnose and monitor treatment for a variety of lung conditions such as pneumonia and emphysema. 

 

Common Uses of Chest X-ray

The chest x-ray is performed to evaluate the lungs, heart and chest wall.

A chest x-ray is typically the first imaging test used to help diagnose symptoms such as:

• breathing difficulties

• a bad or persistent cough

• chest pain or injury

• fever

 

Physicians use the examination to help diagnose or monitor treatment for conditions such as:

• pneumonia

• heart failure and other heart problems

• emphysema

• lung cancer

• positioning of medical devices

• fluid or air collection around the lungs

 

How to Prepare to a Chest X-ray

 

Our X-ray technician is registered with The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists so you can feel confident in their skill and expertise while performing the x-ray.

A chest x-ray requires no special preparation.

You will be asked to remove some of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.

Women should always inform their physician and x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Many imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy so as not to expose the fetus to radiation. If an x-ray is necessary, precautions will be taken to minimize radiation exposure to the baby.