As a parent, all you can think about is your child’s health and wellness. However, sometimes you have to resort to diagnostic procedures such as X-rays to finally have a clear picture of your child’s medical condition. X-rays are considered safe; they are non-invasive and can help obtain crucial information for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This article will walk you through the reasons why you may need an X-ray test for your child, what to expect, and how to prepare for it.
Why Do Children Need an X-Ray?
X-rays are the safest and most effective way to produce images of internal structures in the body and help the physician diagnose and keep track of certain conditions. Your child may need X-rays in cases of:
- Injuries: To rule out fractures, dislocations, or bone deformities
- Chest: To determine pneumonia and other asthmatic attacks or infections
- Abdomen: To investigate blockages, swallowed objects, or intestinal problems
- Dental: To assess tooth development, cavities, or alignment of jaws
- Orthopaedics: To monitor conditions like scoliosis or abnormalities in the growth of bones.
Common Types of X-Rays For Children
- Chest X-ray: For examination of the lungs and heart, mainly where there is a chronic cough, difficulty breathing, or suspected pneumonia.
- Bone X-Ray: For detection of fractures, infections, and developmental disorders.
- Dental X-ray: Used to evaluate cavities and other irregularities or problems with the jaws.
- Abdominal X-Ray: Assists in the diagnosis of GI or ingested foreign objects.
Each type of X-ray is specifically used to achieve a certain diagnostic purpose and thus grants important insight to doctors.
Is X-Ray Safe for Children?
Most parents are concerned about the safety of X-rays, thinking of the radiation exposure they bring. However, modern X-ray machines can minimize as well as low-dose for pediatric X-rays. Sensitive regions are protected using lead aprons and thyroid collars.
“ALARA” (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), is followed that help keep radiation at a minimum standard that is necessary for diagnosis.
Preparing Your Child for an X-Ray
- Explain What Will Happen: Stay calm and explain to your child what an X-ray is so they know it’s quick and painless.
- Dress Comfortably: Choose loose, comfortable clothing and remove metal closures like zippers and buttons.
- Stay Calming: Little kids may get anxious, so you should remain calm so they can be eased.
- Get Steady: Motivate staying still for a clear picture at the time of the procedure.
- Most X-rays are completed in just minutes and should be structured to be undertaken in a safe child-friendly environment.
What Happens During X-Ray?
The process is easy and quick:
- Your child will be laid down on the X-ray table, or the X-ray stand depending on the area that will be X-rayed.
- A technician may use the cushions or straps to hold your child still, if necessary.
- While your child remains still, the X-ray machine will take images.
- Usually, one parent is allowed to stay close while wearing protective gear.
When should you consult the doctor for your child’s X-ray?
Take the child to a paediatrician in case they have:
- Continuous pain or swelling of any part of the body
- Respiratory problems or continuous cough
- Abdominal pain of unknown origin
- Injuries that happen suddenly or fractures may be suspected.
- Your doctor would recommend X-ray diagnosis only when it was extremely required in the treatment plan.