As much as we don’t want them to be, injuries are a part of life. If your kids have been injured during a sporting event or doing something as harmless as playing with some friends at home, is getting an X-ray necessary? And more than that, is it safe for your kids to get one?

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team provides some answers below, so read on.

What Are X-rays?

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate or pass through the human body and produce shadow-like images of bones and some organs. The images can reveal signs of disease and injury.

Several different types of X-rays are used for different purposes, but the most common type—especially among children—is a bone X-ray. Even though X-rays are classified as a carcinogen by the WHO, they’re still safe for your children to get if the need arises. Even so, there are ways to limit your kids’ radiation exposure, which we’ve listed below.

Ways to Limit Radiation Exposure

• Keep a record of all of your past imaging studies, especially those requiring radiation.
• Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of having the study in the first place and any potential alternative testing that may not include radiation exposure.
• Understand the purpose of the study and know why it is being recommended for you.

Is There Risk Involved With X-rays?

The only real risk with X-rays is if your kids get a lot of them, but for most, radiation exposure probably only raises the risk of cancer a tiny amount, if at all.

Plus, the risks of not having an X-ray when needed are much greater than any small risk of the X-ray itself. We’ve listed some ways you can still be careful and limit X-ray risk below.

Ways to Exercise Caution

• Talk with your healthcare provider if you are worried that your kids have received too many X-ray tests.
• Only allow X-rays, fluoroscopy or CT scans when there is a clear health benefit.
• Only X-ray the area needed.
• Use shielding when possible, especially for very sensitive areas, such as the thyroid gland and genitals.

Need an X-ray? You don’t need to make an appointment for your kids to get one, so don’t hesitate to walk into our AFC Urgent Care Louisville center today!