Most of us have had undergone an X-ray at least once in our lifetime. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that take images of the body – they are a commonly used medical imaging tool and prove extremely crucial in diagnosing diseases and ensuring the right treatment. However, there are several myths associated with X-rays, stemming from lack of knowledge or fear. In this article, we bust some of the more common ones.
MYTH: X-rays contain dangerous amounts of radiation exposure
FACT: Believe it or not, radiation is a part and parcel of the natural environment; and we are all exposed to small doses of radiation in our everyday lives. Moreover, modern X-ray machines, especially digital X-rays (which reduce exposure to radiation by 75% or more, as compared to older machines), use very small amounts of radiation, which is not considered harmful at all.
MYTH: X-rays cause harmful side effects
FACT: The small doses of radiation that you are exposed to as part of X-ray scans are not harmful and do not result in any side-effects. We have never had patients complaining of any negative symptoms, including headaches, body aches, etc. So, leave behind your worry about X-ray side-effects – and go ahead and get one if your doctor has recommended it.
MYTH: X-rays affect fertility
FACT: Modern X-ray machines only expose parts of your body to very small doses of radiation. There are no medically documented cases that prove any link between exposure to such miniscule amounts of radiation and fertility. In any case, make sure you choose a reputed diagnostic centre with specialized radiologists who strictly monitor the radiation dosage.
MYTH: X-rays cause people to become radioactive
FACT: The small amount of radiation you are exposed to by the X-rays passes in and out of your body. Unless you consume radiation, it does not linger in your body. You cannot become contaminated by radiation or pass it to those around you.
MYTH: X-rays are outdated
Today, the X-ray technology continues to be an important imaging tool that helps diagnose medical diseases and illnesses. They are not harmful; in fact, without this technology, we would have more deaths and misdiagnoses on our hands.
Have you come across any other myths? Leave a comment below!