Understanding X-rays for Tuberculosis: A Patient's Guide
WHAT IS A TB X-RAY?
If your healthcare provider has recommended a TB X-ray for you, you might be wondering what to expect. A TB X-ray, also called a chest X-ray, is a simple, painless test that takes a picture of your lungs. It’s one of the main ways healthcare providers check for signs of tuberculosis (TB).
Here’s what you need to know:
- The X-ray machine uses a small amount of radiation to create an image of your chest.
- A trained professional called a radiographer will perform the X-ray.
- The whole process usually takes only a few minutes.
WHY DO I NEED A TB X-RAY?
There are several reasons why you might need a TB X-ray:
- To check for TB: If you have symptoms like a long-lasting cough or your healthcare provider suspects you might have TB, an X-ray can help spot signs of the disease in your lungs.
- To monitor treatment: If you’re being treated for TB, your healthcare provider might use X-rays to see how well the treatment is working.
- For travel or work: Some countries require a TB X-ray before you can enter or work there, especially if you’re coming from an area where TB is common.
- For general health screening: Sometimes, TB X-rays are part of routine health check-ups, especially for people who might have been exposed to TB.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A TB X-RAY?
Here’s what you can expect when you go for your TB X-ray:
Preparation:
You’ll be asked to remove any jewellery or clothing with metal (like zippers or underwire bras) from your chest area. You might be given a gown to wear.
Positioning:
The radiographer will position you in front of the X-ray machine. They might ask you to stand, sit, or lie down, depending on the type of X-ray.
The X-ray:
The radiographer will ask you to take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds while they take the X-ray. This helps get a clear picture of your lungs.
Multiple views:
Sometimes, they might take more than one X-ray from different angles.
The whole process usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO TELL YOUR RADIOGRAPHER
Before your X-ray, let the radiographer know if:
- You’re pregnant or think you might be pregnant
- You have a pacemaker
- You have any other health conditions or concerns
AFTER YOUR X-RAY
- You can usually go back to your normal activities right away.
- The images from your X-ray will be looked at by a specialist.
- You’ll typically wait 30 to 40 minutes (maximum two hours) for initial results.
- Your healthcare provider will explain the results to you and decide if you need any more tests or treatment.
WHAT IF THEY FIND SOMETHING ON MY X-RAY?
If your X-ray shows something unusual, don’t panic. Many things can cause shadows or spots on a chest X-ray that aren’t TB. Your healthcare provider might recommend:
More tests, like a sputum test (where you cough up some phlegm for testing)
Another type of scan, like a CT scan
A follow-up X-ray after a little while
Remember, an X-ray alone can’t diagnose TB. Your healthcare provider will look at your X-ray results along with your symptoms and other tests to figure out what’s going on.
TB X-RAYS FOR TRAVEL
If you need a TB X-ray for travel:
- Check the requirements for your destination country well in advance.
- Make sure you get your X-ray done at a place that’s approved by the country you’re traveling to.
- Ask how long your X-ray results will be valid for travel purposes. Some countries only accept recent X-rays.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEALTH
Whether you’re getting a TB X-ray for health reasons or for travel, it’s an important step in taking care of your health. If you have any questions or concerns about your TB X-ray, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider. They’re there to help you understand your health and make sure you get the care you need.
Remember, early detection of TB can lead to quicker treatment and better outcomes. By getting your recommended X-rays and following your healthcare provider’s advice, you’re taking an active role in protecting your health and the health of those around you.