An X-ray is a powerful kind of light that goes through your body so doctors can take pictures of your bones and inside parts.
X-rays are quick, painless, and usually done in a hospital or clinic. A trained professional called a radiographer operates the X-ray machine. The pictures taken are then looked at by a specialist doctor called a radiologist, who writes a report for the doctor who sent you for the test.
An X-ray machine sends a small dose of radiation through your body. Different parts of your body absorb the X-rays in different amounts. Dense materials like bone absorb more X-rays and appear white on the image. Softer tissues, like muscles and skin, absorb fewer X-rays and look darker.
You cannot feel X-rays passing through you, and the test is over in seconds. The machine captures the image and sends it to a computer or develops it onto film so the medical team can view it.
X-rays are extremely versatile and can be used to detect or monitor a wide range of conditions. In some cases, X-rays are also used as a guide during certain treatments, such as checking the placement of medical devices or feeding tubes
Doctors may suggest an X-ray for many reasons. It can help check for broken bones after an accident, look for infections, or see changes in joints. X-rays are also used to:
Find problems in teeth and jaw.
Look for chest infections like pneumonia.
Check bone alignment after treatment.
Spot certain tumours or growths.
Sometimes an X-ray is the first test a doctor orders before deciding if more detailed scans are needed.
Before the X-ray, you may be asked to remove jewellery, glasses, or anything metal that could affect the image. You might need to wear a hospital gown if the area being checked is covered by clothing with zips or buttons.
If you are having an X-ray of your chest or limbs, you will be shown exactly how to stand, sit, or lie down so the machine can take a clear picture. For some types of X-rays, a special dye called a contrast medium might be used to highlight certain areas, but this is less common than with other scans.
The radiographer will position you so the part of your body being examined is between the X-ray machine and a detector or plate. You may be asked to stay still or hold your breath for a few seconds to avoid blurring the image.
The radiographer will usually step behind a screen or into a control room when the X-ray is taken, but they can still see and hear you at all times. The process is quick, and you will not feel anything while it is happening.
You can normally go home straight after the test and carry on with your day as usual. If a contrast dye was used, you may be advised to drink more fluids to help flush it from your system.
A radiologist will review the X-ray and send a report to your doctor. Your doctor will then explain the results to you and, if necessary, discuss any next steps in your care.
Simple carousel diagram to show the X-ray scan procedure.
Yes — X-rays can be adapted for different medical needs:
Standard X-ray – Most often used for bones, chest, and joints.
Dental X-ray – Used in dental practices to check teeth and jaw health.
Fluoroscopy – A moving X-ray that allows doctors to see inside the body in real time, often used during certain procedures.
Mammogram – A special X-ray for breast screening.
Contrast X-ray – Uses a special dye to highlight specific areas such as the digestive tract or blood vessels.
Your healthcare provider will choose the most appropriate type based on your symptoms.
X-rays use a small amount of radiation. For most people, the amount is low and considered safe. Doctors only recommend an X-ray when the benefits outweigh the risks.
Pregnant women are usually advised to avoid X-rays unless absolutely necessary, to protect the baby. If you think you might be pregnant, it is important to tell the radiographer before the test. You can read more about X-ray safety on the NHS website.
Total number of X-rays conducted in the UK between 2022 and 2024.
From 2021 to 2024, NHS England X-ray numbers rose from about 16.8 million to an estimated 22.2 million. The sharp increase after 2021 reflects recovery from COVID-19 disruptions, with activity stabilising at high levels in 2023 and 2024.
In some cases, another type of scan may be more suitable:
MRI scan – No radiation, better for soft tissue detail.
Ultrasound – Good for examining soft tissues and blood flow.
CT scan – More detailed than a standard X-ray but with a higher radiation dose.
X-rays are quick, painless, and widely used in healthcare.
They help detect broken bones, chest conditions, and dental issues.
They involve a small dose of radiation, with extra precautions for children and pregnant women.
Available through the NHS for free, or privately for a fee.
Different types exist for different medical needs.
Disclaimer: Seonat provides general health information for educational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition or before making health decisions.
Simplifying health information for those who need it most
Please note: we are not medical professionals, and the content on this website is for general information only. Always speak to a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice.