Urgent Care X-Ray Clinic in Rockville MD

X-rays fall under the category of high-frequency and small-wavelength electromagnetic waves, meaning that they are also high-energy waves. X-rays are most commonly known for their role in the medical field, where they are utilized to capture pictures of organs and other internal body parts such as bones. Due to the X-rays’ high energy, it is able to pass through a variety of lower-density material such as blood, skin, and fat. When an X-ray is able to pass through an object, it appears as gray or black on the screen. Higher density objects, such as bones or tumors appear as white as they x-ray as the waves cannot pass through. The parts that the radiation is not able to pass through create the image seen on a screen which can give very helpful information to a doctor looking to diagnose a patient. When not properly protected, X-rays can be harmful due to the properties of a high-energy electromagnetic wave. They can strip electrons from an atom or molecule, eventually damaging the DNA inside of cells. In a medical setting, however, there are a lot of precautions taken to ensure that scans and photography are safe for a patient.

Thanks to the properties of the electromagnetic wave, x-rays can be utilized in a variety of ways. People are most familiar with the use of X-rays in the medical field with their role in photographing bones and organs. One very common example of this is to check for broken bones or fractures among people, but it can also detect certain tumors, pneumonia, arthritis, and even objects inside the body. In addition to this, dentists and orthodontists make use of them frequently to take pictures of teeth and the structure of the mouth. X-rays are an invaluable tool for diagnosing and treating these situations and in the medical field in general.

The idea of getting an X-ray for any reason may be frightening for many people, but the procedure is very simple and made much safer with proper medical precautions and today’s technology. The first thing that the technician will ask you to do is remove any metals or jewelry from the direct area of the body receiving the X-ray. This is to ensure the safety of the patient from ionizing radiation and that underlying tissue is not blocked due to the density of metals. Once you have removed anything that can interfere with the imaging, the technician will properly position your body in preparation for the X-ray. They will also prepare a lead apron or shield to prevent direct exposure to the radiation. After properly positioned, the image will begin. It is essential to stay as still as you can while the X-ray is in operation to obtain the highest-quality pictures possible. Remember that your technician may also want to take multiple angles to ensure a satisfactory diagnosis. 

An entire X-ray appointment can usually finish in 20 minutes or less with the scans taking anywhere from 5-10 minutes. However, the length of time it takes can still vary, mainly due to factors such as preparation, type of injury, and repeat imaging. For example, if a patient comes into the facility with heavy clothing and jewelry, it will likely extend their appointment. In addition to this, if a person is experiencing severe injuries that limit mobility, it can take more time to find a good position for the X-ray. Another part of how quickly an X-ray can be completed lies in repeat imaging. Know that a technologist will likely want multiple angles of the X-ray site but also keep in mind that if a patient is jittery, or generally moving during the process, the images will turn out blurry and need to be retaken. It is also a good idea to head to your appointment early if you are looking for the quickest appointment possible. These factors are sure to influence the speed of your X-ray appointment.
 
Contact our team of leading medical professionals today at Physicians Now Urgent Care. We accept walk-ins and we are open 7 days a week. We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.