When it comes to medical treatment, getting the most accurate diagnosis is essential. In many cases, diagnostic data is needed to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. X-rays are an imaging tool often used to help formulate a diagnosis. At Integrative Urgent Care in Glendora, California, Eric D. Brown, MD, and his team offer on-site X-rays so you get the best care possible quickly. To schedule an appointment, call Integrative Urgent Care or use the online booking tool.

book online

What is an X-ray?

An X-ray is a diagnostic imaging tool that uses electromagnetic waves to create images of the inside of your body. The electromagnetic waves create black, white, and gray images based on the amount of radiation absorbed by the body part.

Bones, for example, absorb the most radiation and appear white on the radiograph, or X-ray picture. Air absorbs none of the radiation and appears black, while fatty tissue looks gray.

When would I need an X-ray?

Your provider at Integrative Urgent Care may recommend an X-ray for many reasons to assist in diagnosing a health condition. Some of the most common reasons X-rays are performed include:

  • Broken bones
  • Pneumonia
  • Various types of cancer
  • Assessing the size of your heart
  • Looking for blocked blood vessels

X-rays are also used to find swallowed items, such as coins or a key.

What happens during an X-ray?

The team at Integrative Urgent Care performs your X-ray at the office. The noninvasive test takes only a few minutes and is painless. You may need to wear an exam gown or remove some of your clothing depending on the part of your body undergoing the X-ray. You should also remove your jewelry, watch, and eyeglasses.

Once you’re ready, the X-ray technician places you on the X-ray table and positions the machine to take the picture. Your technician may use pillows or other tools to improve the positioning of your body to get the clearest image. They may take several images during your X-ray.

Integrative Urgent Care also provides pediatric services and can perform X-rays for your child if needed. You can often stay in the X-ray room to help keep your child calm during the test. The X-ray technician provides you with a lead apron to protect you from unnecessary radiation exposure.

Are X-rays safe?

Many people have concerns about X-rays because of the radiation used to generate the images. However, the amount of radiation emitted is minimal, and the benefits the imaging provides far outweigh any potential risks.

However, if you’re pregnant, the team at Integrative Urgent Care may suggest other types of imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to reduce radiation exposure to the baby.

Integrative Urgent Care is dedicated to providing expert and innovative medical care quickly, which is why they offer in-office X-ray testing. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book online today.