How dangerous are X-rays?
Considerable precautions must be taken with x-rays, since this radiation can cause damage. All areas of the patient’s body outside the region to be x-rayed are shielded by a material (usually a metal) that absorbs x-rays. Technicians, nurses, dentists, and doctors must also be protected by opaque shields to prevent x-ray damage. Most medical diagnostic x-rays deliver relatively low doses of radiation and their value in diagnosis is thought to outweigh any possible risks Ironically, the damaging effects of x-rays can also be put to medical use. All types of radiation affect rapidly dividing cells more than slowly developing cells, because the genetic material that controls cell division is sensitive to radiation. Therefore, doctors sometimes use concentrated bursts of x-rays to kill cancer cells, which divide rapidly, while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy cells that divide more slowly. | back to the top | How do I prepare for an x-ray or fluoroscopy? UGI – No food or liquid
Considerable precautions must be taken with x-rays, since this radiation can cause damage. All areas of the patient’s body outside the region to be x-rayed are shielded by a material (usually a metal) that absorbs x-rays. Technicians, nurses, dentists, and doctors must also be protected by opaque shields to prevent x-ray damage. Most medical diagnostic x-rays deliver relatively low doses of radiation and their value in diagnosis is thought to outweigh any possible risks Ironically, the damaging effects of x-rays can also be put to medical use. All types of radiation affect rapidly dividing cells more than slowly developing cells, because the genetic material that controls cell division is sensitive to radiation. Therefore, doctors sometimes use concentrated bursts of x-rays to kill cancer cells, which divide rapidly, while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy cells that divide more slowly.
