Understanding X-Ray
An X-ray uses a small amount of radiation to make images of your bones and organs. X-rays most often are used to look for bone or joint problems, or to check the heart and lungs (chest X-ray). They also are used for:
- Looking for any hard deposits of minerals or salts in your body, such as kidney stones.
- Checking for problems in the bowel such as a blockage or free air in the belly (abdomen).
- Identifying a foreign object in your body, such as metal. This can be from an injury or a swallowed object
Preparing for Your X-Ray
There is no special preparation needed for an X-ray. You may be asked to change into a gown and remove jewelry or other metal that might appear in the images and could interfere with test results.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During the exam, the technologist will position you to ensure they can get the necessary image(s) for the radiologist. You may be asked to hold your breath to reduce the possibility of blurry images.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your appointment time.
X-Ray Results
A board-certified radiologist reviews your images and provides the results to your ordering provider. You’ll be notified of results. If you have MyThedaCare, you can view and reference your results there as well. Your provider will contact you if you require any follow-up.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your ordering provider. We’re here to help and ensure you have the support you need.
To locate your ordering provider in MyThedaCare, simply log in and check the “Visits” or “Test Results” sections, where the provider is typically listed. You may also find this information under “Messages” or “Care Team.”
If you’re still unsure, feel free to send a message through MyThedaCare, and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you further.
