X-ray, short for x-radiation, is a type of imaging test that has been around for many years. Using this technology, doctors are able to see your bones, muscles, and more, which allows them to diagnose, treat, and monitor a number of different medical conditions.
X-rays are the most commonly used form of imaging for diagnostic purposes. Any part of the body can be x-rayed including the head, chest, abdomen, arms, hands, legs, and feet. Your X-rays will allow us to identify any irregularities that may be causing your symptoms. Some examples of things that can be detected by an X-ray include:
• Cancers and tumors
• Bone deformities/fractures
• Blood vessel blockages
• Digestive problems
• Dislocated joints
• Infections
• Pneumonia or bronchitis
• Ingestion of foreign objects
• Kidney stones and more
When you’re experiencing pain or otherwise don’t feel quite right, there are several avenues that medical professionals can take to investigate further. Informative internal imaging allows health providers to properly assess your overall health, diagnose an injury or condition, and make a treatment plan. X-ray imaging has been in practice for over a century; its ability to capture pictures inside the body makes it useful for a number of purposes.
Are you wondering whether you need an X-ray? It might be time for an X-ray if you are sick or injured and are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
• Trouble Moving a Limb: If you have hurt yourself and are having trouble putting weight on your foot, moving a few steps, or moving your limb, an X-ray will be able to tell your provider whether you have fractured your bone. A sprain will not show up on an X-ray, but we would be able to rule out a broken bone if that were the case.
• Joint Pain or Stiffness: An X-ray can help doctors monitor the condition of your joints if you have arthritis, fluid buildup, or another condition.
• Persistent Swelling: If you have swelling that doesn’t go down after several days, an X-ray can help ascertain if something else is going on. There might be fluid collecting around a joint, a fracture, or another cause for internal inflammation.
• Digestive Problems: Serious digestive issues might be a sign that you need an X-ray. An X-ray can also show the location of any swallowed non-edible items.
• Trouble Breathing: A chest X-ray can help diagnose acute lung issues such as pneumonia or lung cancer. It can also show changes to the heart that can affect your breathing.
If you’ve been injured and you’re exhibiting any of the above symptoms, it’s possible that you need an X-ray. At WesTex Urgent Care, we provide comprehensive X-ray services for patients throughout the Midland and Odessa, TX areas. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
If you are feeling unwell and believe you may require an X-ray for a proper diagnosis, rely on the team at WesTex Urgent Care. Our talented team can assist with the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of ailments. We have two convenient locations to serve you better - one in Midland, TX and one in Odessa, TX.
We are available 7 days a week, accept most insurances, and offer virtual visits so you can speak to a doctor without leaving the comfort of your home. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule your visit.