The Effects Of Radiodiation

Radiology is accredited for many of the advances in healthcare which is ever so changing since its discovery of x-rays in November of 1896 by Mr. Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen. Radiology is used in many different aspects of health care including diagnosis and treatment of illness. Procedures have the power to improve and possibly save lives with the many technological advances and knowhow present today. When applied and performed appropriately, these procedures can improve health and wellness which continues to amaze. Medical x-rays have improved the ability to detect disease or injury early enough and more rapidly making it vastly possible for the medical problem to be controlled, treated, or even cured. With that being said as it proves to be a life saving/changing wonder there is a great amount of speculation and anxiety as to the effects it may cause and just how much radiation one is receiving whether it is a run of the mill chest x-ray or something more invasive such as a CT scan or radiation therapy, just to name a few examples of commonly known procedures.

As a patient you may have concerns about the imaging procedures ordered for you or your loved ones. Said concerns raise questions such as; “How much medical radiation is too much?” This is best answered by saying that there is no definitive answer. With that being said the amount of radiation considered necessary to meet your health needs is all that is required may lend some form of ease. For example a low need for radiation would be necessary for an x-ray of a broken ankle. A more moderate need might be more required for a CT of an adult appendix. A high need for radiation would be warranted for multiple CT scans after a traumatic accident. A better question that one co...

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...ll cause. This is when it is important to drive home the fact that yes; it is possible but likely, no. Only in extreme cases and after prolonged periods of high exposure should one fear the “c” word, cancer. Technologists are indeed the patients advocate in the way that it is their duty to protect and serve to the best of their ability ensuring that procedures are conducted using the ALARA principle and that the potential risks involved are outweighed by the benefits. Benefits in which have the power to promote well being and possibility for the medical problem to be controlled, treated, or even cured. Radiology undoubtedly has much more to offer in the years ahead with the continuing advancements in technology. As the world of medical care a waits said advancements take a moment to reflect on where it all began and how far it’s come and relish in the amazement.