When your doctor needs to see your skeletal structure, organs, or soft tissue without making an incision, they'll likely use an X-ray. This imaging method uses electromagnetic waves of varying frequencies that can be projected onto a film or digitally used for diagnosing problems with a person's anatomical structure. If you're preparing for this procedure, learn more about what to expect below.

When Do You Need an X-Ray?

X-rays are used for a variety of applications, including:

• Diagnosing a broken bone

• Locating tumors

• Mammograms

• Identifying internal bleeding

• Evaluating digestive problems

• Spotting inflammation

• Monitoring joint health and arthritis

• Assessing osteoporosis and bone density

• Screening for dental health issues

Urgent care centers often order X-rays for sports injuries or if they suspect cases of pneumonia and soft tissue inflammation.

What Should You Expect From the Procedure?

X-rays sometimes require special contrast dyes that help doctors and radiologists identify anatomical structures. In this case, you may have to ingest the dye or receive it via IV infusion or enema. This can make some people feel nauseous, lightheaded, or itchy, and many people experience a metallic taste in their mouths after the injection.

If you're getting an X-ray of your GI tract, you'll also need to fast before the procedure or take a medication to empty your bowels. These steps help ensure your provider gets an unobstructed view of your digestive system.

Your doctor can usually see the results as soon as the scan is over. Since the process is fast and affordable, X-rays are routine procedures. However, while they cause little to no discomfort, they do come with a small level of radiation exposure, so talk to your doctor if you've received an X-ray recently or if you could be pregnant.

To learn more about diagnostic services in Anchorage, talk with the experienced and compassionate team of providers at Alaska Urgent Care. They offer X-rays and other labwork onsite, and they’re open on weekends and until 8 pm Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 341-7757. To learn more about their services, visit their website.