X-ray of the lungs

Chest X-ray is a fast and painless method that uses x-rays to capture the image of the chest and organs contained in it – the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels and lymph nodes. The chest X-ray shows ribs, sternum, collarbone and thoracic spine.  The imaging takes about 10 minutes.

INDICATIONS / WHY IS IT PERFORMED?

• To examine the causes of the following problems: shortness of breath, lack of breath, persistent cough (with or without expectoration), chest pain or pain during breathing…
• In detecting pneumonia, lung tumors (benign and malignant), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, injury to the bones of the chest or organs in the chest, enlargement of the heart and heart failure, presence of a foreign body in the airways, assessing the correct position of the tubus…

HOW IS IT PERFORMED?

• Two sections are generally made. One at the back (PA-posteroanterior) and the other at the side (LA-lateral). In the first position, the patient stands with his hands on his hips and his chest resting on the plate of the x-ray machine. For the other position, the patient stands with his arms raised above his head and the side of his chest resting on the plate of the x-ray machine. Patients who cannot stand during the examination may lie down.
• The radiology technician will help you to take the proper position and then start the x-ray machine.
• You will need to stand still during imaging and hold your breath for a few seconds to make the X-ray as clear as possible.

POTENTIAL RISKS

• This is a completely painless method. The radiation dose you are exposed to during this imaging does not cause serious complications.
• If you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, tell medical professionals because x-rays can affect the fetus.

PREPARATION

Chest X-ray does not require special preparation.  Bring your previous medical records with you and show them to your doctor (if you have any).

AFTER X-RAY OF THE LUNG

After X-ray imaging, you can return to your normal daily activities.