4 Signs You Might Need an X-Ray Scan

An X-ray scan is one of the most common and oldest tools that holds significant importance in diagnosis. It lets doctors inside your body without surgery. In an X-ray scan, radiologists use safe and minimal levels of electromagnetic radiation to create an image of bones, organs, and tissues. These scans are essential for diagnosing fractures, infections, lung conditions, and even swallowed objects. This quick and painless procedure helps doctors diagnose the underlying issue inside your body. However, you might have an injury that seems normal, but your body may show some signs that require further investigation.

Here’s how to recognize when your symptoms show you need an X-ray scan. 

1. Severe Pain and Swelling Demand an X Ray Scan

If you have recently had an injury due to some accident, and are feeling severe pain and swelling in that part of your body, then there is a greater chance that you have a fracture, dislocation, or internal damage. You might have experienced a slip and fall, and if you feel an immediate throbbing and a “puffy” appearance in your arm or leg, it may indicate a broken bone. On the other hand, if there is a persistent swelling for days even after rest and ice, it also raises red flags. In both of these cases, you should immediately opt for an x ray scan. The scan can rule out fractures or reveal fluid buildup around joints, which helps in the proper treatment of the problem. 

2. Inability to Bear Weight or Move Normally

You may someday feel that when you want, your ankle, foot, or leg has a little difficulty even taking a few steps. It might also be possible that you are unable to lift items with a hurt arm. This functional limitation often means that there is structural damage within your body. If you’re unable to bear your weight or can’t take any pressure on a knee or ankle, an X-ray scan can confirm whether bones are fractured or joints are misaligned. Similarly, stiffness or locking in a joint after an injury may signal the presence of bone fragments or the progression of arthritis, which makes it essential to have an X-ray scan to avoid chronic instability or improper healing.

3. Visible Deformity or Tingling Sensations

A bent limb, crooked finger, or oddly protruding joint is a clear visual cue for an X-ray. If you have any of these deformities, it is a warning sign, as they often accompany dislocations (where bones slip out of position) or complex fractures. On the other hand, there may be no obvious bending, tingling, or numbness near an injury, which hints at nerve or blood vessel damage. This is common with shoulder dislocations or spinal issues. However, X-rays can visualize bone positions and can reveal if misalignments compress nerves. 

4. Chest Pain or Breathing Troubles

Some of you might have breathing difficulties or chest pain. If that’s the case, then you shouldn’t ignore it. These symptoms may indicate underlying issues such as pneumonia, lung infections, or even heart problems. A chest X-ray scan provides images of the lungs and heart, which can help doctors identify abnormalities. These abnormalities may include fluid accumulation, infections, or enlarged heart size. When a timely diagnosis is made via an X-ray scan, it ensures appropriate treatment and can be life-saving.