Health tips
How to minimise radiation from x-rays
Whether you need a better picture of an aching arm after a fall or an inside glimpse of your pearly whites, some X-rays are a medical necessity. But despite their undisputed value, X-rays also expose you to radiation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers following guidelines to minimise unnecessary radiation exposure:
* Find out how an X-ray will benefit you. Do not refuse an X-ray that is medically necessary.
* On the other hand, do not push for an X-ray if your doctor says one is not needed.
* If you are pregnant or even think you might be, always let the technician know before getting an X-ray.
* Ask if you can wear a protective lead shield.
* Ask if lower-radiation X-rays are available.
* Keep a list of your X-ray history to track how often you have them.
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