What Is an X-Ray and Why Is It Done?

Initial and revolutionary medical technology for imaging bones and internal structures of the human body.

What Is an X-Ray?

An X-ray is a type of high-energy, invisible electromagnetic radiation. Discovered in 1895 by physicist Wilhelm Röntgen, these rays easily pass through human skin and soft tissues but cannot penetrate dense bone.

Because calcium-rich dense bones absorb and block X-ray beams, bone structures appear bright white on X-ray film or digital sensors, while air and soft muscle tissues appear dark, aiding in disease diagnosis.

Why Do Doctors Recommend an X-Ray?

Bone Fractures and Conditions

It is the primary imaging modality for identifying bone cracks (fractures) or breaks from accidents, joint dislocations, and degenerative bone diseases like arthritis.

Chest Infections and Heart Health

A chest X-ray is performed to rapidly detect lung pneumonia, tuberculosis (TB), cancer, fluid accumulation, or abnormal heart enlargement (cardiomegaly).

Dental and Abdominal Foreign Objects

It is extremely useful for assessing tooth root infections or cavities (Dental X-Ray/OPG) and locating swallowed foreign metallic objects or coins in children.

Preparation Before the Test

Remove Metallic Accessories and Objects

Metal chains, rings, glasses, or clothing with metal buttons block X-ray beams and prevent clear imaging. These must be removed before the test.

Pregnancy Precautions

Because X-rays involve a small amount of radiation, they can pose risks to an unborn baby. Inform your doctor and technician beforehand if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.

No Fasting Needed for Standard X-Rays

Routine X-rays of the limbs or chest do not require fasting. However, specialized contrast X-rays (such as Barium Swallow or IVU) do require fasting for a specified duration.

Wear Loose Clothing

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily adjusted. In many cases, diagnostic centers will provide a cotton hospital gown for the procedure.

Estimated Cost of X-Ray Test in Bangladesh

Test Name Government Hospital Private Diagnostic Center
Chest X-Ray (Single View) ৳ 200 - ৳ 300 ৳ 500 - ৳ 800
X-Ray of Joint / Bone (Hand, Foot, or Spine) ৳ 300 - ৳ 500 ৳ 600 - ৳ 1,000
Dental OPG (Full Jaw & Teeth) ৳ 150 - ৳ 300 ৳ 400 - ৳ 600
Contrast Studies (IVU / Barium Swallow) ৳ 1,000 - ৳ 1,500 ৳ 3,000 - ৳ 5,000

How X-Rays Work and Procedure Duration

1 - 2

Minutes Required (Procedure Time)

How the Procedure Works:
X-rays are an invisible form of energy similar to light that pass through the body to capture images of bones and internal organs. This makes it easy to spot bone fractures or lung issues without surgical incisions or needle punctures.

 

Very Fast Procedure:
An X-ray procedure takes only 1 to 2 minutes to perform.

 

Modern Digital Technology and Safety:
The use of modern digital (DR) X-ray technology has significantly reduced radiation exposure levels. It provides a fast, safe, and accurate way to detect medical conditions.

Do you have any questions?

An X-ray is a very common yet essential diagnostic tool. Avoid unnecessary X-ray exposures, and always seek clear medical advice, especially during pregnancy.

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