When you need an X-ray, waiting isn’t an option. Whether you’ve suffered a painful injury, your child may have swallowed something, or a lingering cough needs answers, getting diagnostic imaging quickly is essential.
At The Urgency Room, we make same-day X-ray appointments simple and stress-free. With advanced imaging technology and highly trained medical professionals, we’re ready to help you get the answers you need – without the long wait times of a traditional ER.
How Do X-rays Work?
X-rays are a type of invisible light that can pass through your body. Soft tissues, like skin and muscles, let X-rays pass through easily, while denser materials, like bones, absorb them. That’s why bones appear white on an X-ray image – they stop more of the X-ray beams, creating a clear outline.
Why You Would Have an X-ray Taken
X-rays are one of the most effective diagnostic tools available, providing clear images that help trained providers assess injuries and medical conditions quickly. If you’re experiencing any of the following, an X-ray may be necessary:
Suspected Fractures or Breaks
X-ray testing is one of the best ways to examine a suspected broken bone. By taking images from multiple angles, these X-rays can show a physician what type of break you have, the severity, and what can be done to stabilize and heal the bone.
Beyond bones, X-rays can also highlight changes in dense areas like joints and the spine. This is why they’re useful for detecting arthritis, osteoporosis, and other bone-related conditions.
Joint Pain or Arthritis
Chronic pain or stiffness in the joints can be a sign of arthritis or other degenerative joint conditions. X-rays can help detect cartilage loss, bone spurs, and other abnormalities that contribute to joint pain, helping doctors develop an effective treatment plan.
Bone Infections or Unexplained Swelling
Sometimes, persistent pain, swelling, or redness around a bone could indicate an infection. X-rays allow physicians to identify signs of bone infections, such as abnormal bone density or structural damage, leading to prompt treatment.
Persistent Cough, Lung Infections, or Pneumonia
A lingering cough or difficulty breathing could signal a lung infection like pneumonia. A chest X-ray helps identify fluid buildup, lung inflammation, or other respiratory issues that may require medical intervention.
X-rays can also detect collapsed lungs (pneumothorax) by showing air in the pleural space, which can cause difficulty breathing and sharp chest pain. Additionally, lung cancer may first be detected on a chest X-ray, revealing masses or abnormal tissue growth in the lungs.
Sinus Infections
Other ailments, such as sinus infections, can also be keenly identified using X-ray testing. Normal, healthy sinuses are usually clear of blockage and full of air, which makes them appear black on an X-ray as nothing is present to absorb the rays.
When an infection is present, the buildup of mucus or pus in the once-clear sinuses will absorb rays and leave a shadow on the X-ray film. This same theory applies to detecting infections in other airways.
Heart or Blood Vessel Abnormalities
In some cases, a chest X-ray can reveal signs of an enlarged heart, blocked arteries, or other cardiovascular concerns. If you have symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, a physician may recommend an X-ray to check for underlying heart conditions.
Employment or Travel Requirements
Certain jobs and travel situations require a chest X-ray as part of mandatory health screenings. Healthcare workers, long-term care employees, and miners may need regular X-rays to monitor lung health.
Additionally, some countries (such as Australia, New Zealand, and Canada) require chest X-rays for long-term visas or immigration purposes to rule out tuberculosis and other health concerns.
Swallowed Foreign Objects
If a child swallows a small object (such as a coin or toy), an X-ray can pinpoint its location and determine whether it’s a choking hazard or a digestive concern. Physicians can then decide whether the object will pass naturally or if medical intervention is required.
Detecting Foreign Objects in the Body
X-rays are essential when a person has an object lodged in their body due to an accident or injury. This could include metal fragments, glass shards, or other materials that aren’t naturally found in the body.
For example, a construction worker may suffer an injury where a nail or tool fragment becomes embedded or a person in a car accident may have small pieces of debris under the skin. X-rays help pinpoint the exact location and depth of the object, allowing doctors to determine the safest way to remove it.
In more serious cases, X-rays can also detect bullets or shrapnel in the body after a traumatic event. Medical professionals use imaging to assess the risk of removal or determine if leaving the object in place is safer.
Because different materials absorb X-rays differently, radiologists can distinguish between metal, glass, or plastic to make an accurate diagnosis.
Digestive Tract Concerns
X-rays can also help diagnose issues within the digestive tract, such as blockages, abnormal growths, or objects. In some cases, a contrast medium may be used to provide a clearer image of the gastrointestinal system.
Sometimes, you may be asked to ingest or receive an injection of a contrast medium. Usually made of barium or iodine, this contrast medium absorbs X-rays and can reveal potential medical problems when examining areas like the digestive tract.
On rare occasions, contrast medium can cause some side effects. X-rays requiring the aid of a contrast medium may also take longer than a standard X-ray.
What to Expect After an X-ray
After having an X-ray taken, the next step involves a physician or radiologist examining the images to see exactly what the problems were as well as their extent. In the majority of instances, you can go on with your normal day-to-day activities.
A typical X-ray won’t make you feel different – you shouldn’t be lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous. However, if you did ingest a contrast medium, drinking lots of fluids will help it clear from your body quicker, thus diminishing the odds of negative side effects.
Get X-rays Taken When You Need Them
If you need an X-ray today, don’t wait in a crowded emergency room. At The Urgency Room, we provide fast, efficient imaging services in a comfortable environment. Owned and operated by the Emergency Physicians Professional Association, some of the highest quality physicians in the Twin Cities put their know-how into all they do at The Urgency Room.
With convenient locations in Eagan, Vadnais Heights, and Woodbury, our team is ready to assist you when urgent medical needs arise. Skip the long wait times – schedule your appointment today with the Urgency Room. Once you’re evaluated, we will be able to determine if an X-ray is needed to get you the care you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting an X-ray Today
How quickly can I get an X-ray at The Urgency Room?
We offer same-day X-ray services at all our locations, ensuring you receive care as soon as possible without long wait times.
Do I need a referral for an X-ray at The Urgency Room?
No, you do not need a referral. Simply make an appointment, and our medical professionals will assess whether an X-ray is necessary based on your symptoms.
Are X-rays safe for frequent use?
Modern X-ray technology minimizes radiation exposure, and medical professionals take precautions to ensure safety, especially for those requiring frequent imaging.
How much does an X-ray cost?
Costs vary depending on insurance coverage and the type of X-ray needed. Our team can provide pricing estimates when you visit.
Will I receive my results the same day?
Yes, your X-ray will be reviewed quickly in most cases, and a physician will discuss your results with you before you leave.