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Although x-rays were discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Roentgen, many people of today still have a fear of radiation that is not supported by the levels of risk involved. When people talk about having X-rays taken, the resulting discussion may lead to jokes about "glowing in the dark," becoming "Incredible Hulks," "Mutant Ninja Turtles," etc. Of course, these are fictitional notions that originated with movies and comic books and have no basis in facts.
Unfortunately, these notions, along with some confusion between electronically generated radiation (X-rays) and radiation from radioactive materials (gamma, beta, and alpha radiation), have resulted in excessive fears regarding medical X-rays. To dispel these notions, we believe it may be helpful to provide some factual information.
X-rays are man made and come from a machine. Just like light from electric lights, X-rays cease when electricity to the machine is shut off. They do not continually "bounce" around the room. Most exposures only last a fraction of a second. "Whirring" sounds heard after an X-ray is taken are from the X-ray tube adjusting to the heat from the electricity it received. The sound does not mean you are still being exposed to X-rays.
The X-ray must be able to go through your body to create an image on the film. X-rays do not stay in your body after an X-ray examination. Therefore, you cannot become radioactive and expose other people to radiation from having an X-ray taken. (If nursing your baby prior to the X-ray exposure, it will be safe for you to continue nursing after the X-ray exposure.)
Almost everyone in modern society has benefited from the use of medical x-rays. Even though there are enormous benefits and minimal risks associated with the use of x-rays in medicine, it is still prudent to maintain any exposures as low as reasonably achievable.
If you have additional questions regarding X-rays, please contact a member of the X-ray staff at (801) 536-4250 or you may contact us through E-mail.
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