Medical X-ray Screening: How It Works, What To Expect & Preparation

What are medical X-rays?

Medical X-rays are one of the most widely used imaging techniques in modern healthcare. They help doctors see inside the body without surgery, assisting in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions. From detecting broken bones to identifying lung infections and tumours, X-ray imaging plays a crucial role in medical diagnostics and treatment.

Find out more about our health screening services and how they can benefit you here.

How medical X-rays work

Medical X-rays use radiation beams to create medical imaging of bones, soft tissues, and organs inside the body. The beams pass through the body and are absorbed by various tissues at varying levels, creating an X-ray image on a nearby detector. Here’s how the shades of grey of medical X-rays display:

• Bones and denser tissues take up more radiation and therefore are white on the X-ray.

• Soft tissues and organs absorb less radiation and therefore appear in shades of grey.

• Air-filled cavities, like the lungs, absorb the least radiation, which makes them appear black in the image.

By looking at this contrast, it helps doctors detect broken bones, infections, or abnormal growths, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

When are medical X-rays used?

Medical X-rays help healthcare professionals detect and monitor many medical conditions, ensuring accurate treatment and patient care. They are widely used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Diagnostic uses

Your healthcare provider may order medical X-rays for diagnostic purposes, such as:

1. Bone and joint conditions: X-rays are essential in identifying various musculoskeletal issues, including:

   • Fractures and broken bones: Help assess the location, type, and severity of fractures.

   • Joint abnormalities: Conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and joint dislocations can be diagnosed.

   • Bone infections (osteomyelitis): X-rays may reveal infections affecting the bones.

   • Spinal disorders: Conditions such as scoliosis or herniated discs can be detected.

2. Soft tissue and organ conditions: Apart from bones, X-rays are also used to examine internal organs and soft tissues in large quantities:

   • Lung diseases: Chest X-rays help detect pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and fluid in the lungs (pleural effusion).

   • Heart abnormalities: An X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart, which might be a sign of underlying cardiovascular disease.

   • Abdominal issues: X-rays may identify intestinal blockages, swallowed foreign objects, or abnormal masses in the digestive system.

   • Foreign objects in the body: When a foreign object is swallowed or inserted into the skin accidentally, X-rays help locate its position.

3. Guiding medical procedures: Besides, X-rays also assist in various medical procedures, including:

   • Pre-surgical evaluation: Doctors use X-ray images to prepare for surgical interventions, such as bone repair or tumour removal.

   • Monitoring treatment progress: X-rays help track healing in fractures and evaluate joint replacements or other post-surgical recoveries.

   • Dental and orthodontic assessments: X-rays are also used to examine dental-related issues in teeth, jaw structure, and gum diseases.

Therapeutic uses

Medical X-rays are also used for therapeutic purposes, which is known as therapeutic radiation. It uses ionising radiation in the form of gamma, photon, and electron beams to kill cancerous cells.

If you're experiencing pain, discomfort, or symptoms that may require imaging, our specialists at Thomson Medical are here to help. Request an appointment to determine if an X-ray is the right step for your diagnosis and care.

Preparing for an X-ray

Before the X-ray, your physician will give you specific instructions to ensure accurate imaging results. Depending on the type of X-ray, here’s what you need to follow:

Do’s

• Remove metallic objects such as jewellery, hairpins, and hearing aids, as they can interfere with the imaging.

• Wear loose and comfortable clothing to facilitate the procedure. In some cases, you may need to change into a hospital gown.

• Inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding so necessary precautions can be taken to minimise radiation exposure.

• Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, medications, or allergies—especially if you have kidney disease, as certain contrast dyes used in imaging can affect kidney function.

Don’ts

• Do not eat or drink for a few hours before the procedure, particularly for an abdominal X-ray or a scan using contrast dye.

• Do not apply lotions, creams, or perfumes on the area being examined, as they may affect image quality.

• Do not wear tight clothing that may restrict movement or interfere with the X-ray.

What to expect during the X-ray procedure?

During the procedure, a radiologic technologist will help you position your body for the best images. You may need to sit, stand, or lie down in different positions based on the area of the body being imaged. You should remain still when the images are taken to prevent blurring.

The procedure is typically painless and quick. Once the radiologist is satisfied with the images, the study will be completed, and you may resume your normal activities unless otherwise instructed.

What happens after an X-ray?

Once the X-ray procedure is complete, you can change back into your regular clothing and resume your normal daily activities. There is no recovery time required unless your healthcare provider has given specific instructions based on your condition.

The timing of your X-ray results may vary depending on the type of scan and the urgency of the case. In some instances, results may be available on the same day, while in other cases, they may take longer. A radiologist—a specialist in interpreting medical images—will analyse the X-ray and prepare a detailed report for your healthcare provider.

After reviewing the findings, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you. If necessary, additional tests such as blood tests, further imaging, or other diagnostic procedures may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis or develop an appropriate treatment plan. It is important to follow up with your doctor to fully understand your results and any next steps required for your health.

How much does an X-ray cost in Singapore?

The cost of an X-ray in Singapore depends on the type of scan, clinic location, and whether it is done at a public or private facility.

• Public hospitals and polyclinics: 

  • Around $50 to $100, depending on subsidies and referrals.

• Private hospitals and clinics: 

  • Prices may range from $80 to $250, depending on the complexity of the X-ray.

• Specialised imaging centres: 

  • May offer package deals for multiple scans if further imaging is needed.

At Thomson Medical, we offer reliable and professional X-ray services in a patient-friendly environment. If you require an X-ray in Singapore, request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

Where to get an X-ray in Singapore?

If you are looking for an X-ray clinic in Singapore, there are various medical facilities that provide imaging services, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and diagnostic centres. These clinics offer X-ray imaging for diagnostic and screening purposes, helping healthcare professionals assess medical conditions effectively.

When selecting an X-ray clinic in Singapore, one should consider appointment timing, waiting time, imaging equipment, and whether a referral is required. There are clinics that offer walk-in services, and others need a pre-consultation with a doctor.

Possible risks with X-rays

X-rays release a low level of radiation to photograph the body. In most adults, radiation exposure is small and safe. Pregnant women need special precautions since radiation can damage a developing baby. If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider before an X-ray.

Another potential issue is pain or discomfort during the procedure, particularly if you've got a fracture or an old injury. X-rays require you to be still in some positions for good vision, so there may be temporary discomfort holding a particular position. However, medical personnel will try to make the procedure as quick and comfortable as possible.

FAQs

What does X-ray stand for?

X-ray, or Röntgen radiation, is electromagnetic radiation with a very short wavelength and high frequency. It is used in medical imaging to capture images of the interior of the body in high detail, allowing health professionals to diagnose and monitor several conditions. X-ray is named after Wilhelm Röntgen, the German physicist who discovered it in 1895.

How long does an X-ray take?

In most cases, an X-ray scan is quick and efficient. The taking of the picture is only a few seconds, but the entire process, from getting ready to taking multiple pictures if needed, may take approximately 20 minutes. The time can be unpredictable based on the area being scanned and the number of pictures required.

Is an X-ray test safe?

Yes, X-ray tests are safe, with low levels of radiation. For most adults, the benefits far exceed any risk. Pregnant patients must inform their physician before the test since radiation can harm the baby. Although repeated exposure over a period of years should be avoided, current X-ray machines minimise the level of radiation to as low as reasonably possible.

Is it safe to have an X-ray while on your period?

Yes, it is completely safe to have an X-ray while on your period. Menstruation does not affect the X-ray procedure or its results. However, if you are undergoing an abdominal or pelvic X-ray, you should inform your healthcare provider, as they might consider your cycle when interpreting the images. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is important to let your doctor know before the procedure.

How many times can you do an X-ray?

There really isn't any limit to when you can have an X-ray – it completely depends on your medical needs and how often your physician feels like you need to have it done. X-rays only give off small doses of radiation, and the technology nowadays enables us to make the dose as tiny as possible.

That being said, if you require regular imaging (such as for chronic conditions or injuries), your physician may have alternatives in mind, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, which are not radiation-based.

Is MRI better than X-ray?

MRI and X-ray are two different imaging techniques used to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. Neither is inherently better – the choice depends on what needs to be examined.

MRI produces high-quality, detailed images, especially of soft tissues, the brain, blood vessels, nerves, and muscles. It is radiation-free and suitable for frequent imaging but takes longer to perform and may be uncomfortable for individuals with claustrophobia.

X-rays, on the other hand, are quick and effective for examining bone fractures, tumours, dental issues, and lung diseases. However, they use a small dose of radiation and are not as detailed as MRI for soft tissue evaluation.

The best imaging option depends on your condition, so it is always advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable test for your needs.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.