Can I Schedule an x ray? All You Need to Know Schedule an X-Ray?
How much does an x-ray cost? How long does it take to schedule an x ray? If you’re thinking about scheduling an x ray, here’s what you need to know before making your appointment. We’ll also look at some common questions about scheduling an x-ray, like how far in advance you should schedule one, as well as how you can get the best price on an x-ray and whether or not you need to schedule it in advance.
Understanding what an x-ray does
An x-ray is a common imaging test that’s been used for decades. It can help your doctor view the inside of your body without having to make an incision. This can help them diagnose, monitor, and treat many medical conditions-rays use a small amount of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of your body. The images are recorded on film or a computer’s -rays are painless and quick. The procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes.
How you get ready for an x-ray
Most x-rays don’t require any special preparation. However, if you’re having an x-ray of your digestive system, you may be asked to drink a contrast solution or eat a barium meal. This helps create clearer images.
You may also be asked to wear a gown during the exam. This is because x-rays are usually taken of the body part being examined from several different angles.
If you have an allergy to contrast dye, be sure to tell your doctor or the technologist before the exam.
You should also let them know if you’re pregnant or think you might be pregnant. In most cases, x-rays are not harmful to unborn babies. But in some cases, your doctor may want to take special precautions.
How you are positioned during an x-ray
You will be positioned on a padded table. The x-ray machine will be brought close to the part of your body that needs to be imaged. Depending on the type of x-ray being performed, you may be asked to hold your breath at certain points during the procedure. The technologist will then step out of the room and go behind a lead wall to operate the x-ray machine. You will hear the machine activate as it takes pictures. The technologist will return to the room after the pictures have been taken and help you off of the table.
When to schedule a follow up appointment after your x-ray
If you’ve been referred for an x-ray by your doctor, you may be wondering when you should schedule the appointment. The answer depends on a few factors, such as the type of x-ray being performed and the reason for the referral. In general, most x-rays can be scheduled within a week or two. However, if your doctor needs the results urgently, they may be able to arrange for you to have the x-ray sooner.
What happens if something shows up on my x-ray
If something shows up on your x-ray, your doctor will likely order additional tests to get more information. These could include a CT scan, MRI, or biopsy. Depending on what they find, you may be referred to a specialist for treatment. In some cases, the findings on an x-ray are benign and no further treatment is needed.
The best time of day to schedule an x-ray
Morning is generally the best time of day to schedule an x-ray. This is because your body is typically more relaxed and there is less traffic in the radiology department. Plus, you’ll be able to get the results of your test back sooner. However, if you have a busy schedule, you can schedule an x-ray for any time that works for you.
