Chest X-Ray

If you have a condition like asthma, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a chest X-ray helps assess how well your lungs are functioning, so your doctor can recommend the right treatment. Chest X-rays also show whether breathing treatments are working. Dennis Kellar, MD, Amanda Law, FPA-APRN, CNP, and the Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine team in Algonquin, Illinois, provide a chest X-ray onsite for your convenience. Call the practice today or book a consultation online.

What is a chest X-ray?

A chest X-ray is a common imaging test to examine the organs and structures inside your chest. Chest X-rays use low levels of radiation to produce images of:

• Your lungs
• Blood vessels
• Airways
• Bones of your chest and spine

Chest X-rays can also reveal fluid in or around your lungs, calcium deposits, and fractures.  

Because certain diseases change the structure of your lungs, a chest X-ray can aid in diagnosing a medical condition. These X-rays also show whether breathing treatments are working.

Why would I need a chest X-ray?

A chest X-ray allows your practitioner to see whether your lungs are healthy and functioning well. Your practitioner may order a chest X-ray if you’re short of breath, experiencing chest pain, or have a chest injury.

A chest X-ray can help to diagnose:

• Asthma
• Pneumonia
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Bronchitis
• Pleurisy
• Lung cancer
• Tuberculosis

A chest X-ray also can indicate signs of infection commonly found with cystic fibrosis.

Are chest X-rays risky?

The benefits of a chest X-ray generally outweigh any potential risk. While X-rays use radiation, the amount is low, even lower than what you’re exposed to in your day-to-day activities. You may be provided a protective apron to wear if you need multiple X-rays.

What happens during a chest X-ray?

After you arrive at Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, you’ll be ushered to a changing room. You’ll typically need to undress from the waist up and remove your jewelry. You’ll be provided with an exam gown to wear.

Depending on the images your practitioner has requested, you may have the X-ray while standing, sitting, or reclining. Here’s what to expect next:

• Your technician moves you into position, usually a front or side position, or both
• You’ll take a deep breath and hold it
• You’ll need to stay very still, otherwise the image will be blurry
• The technician steps behind a window or wall during the X-ray
• You may be repositioned and repeat the process again

The technician makes sure you’re comfortable throughout your X-rays, which are usually over quickly.

Afterward, your Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine practitioner reviews the X-ray results with you. Together, you’ll discuss whether you need additional tests or treatment.  

If you’re experiencing breathing problems or have a chest injury and could benefit from a chest X-ray, call Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine today or book a consultation online.