Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

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How does it work? of X-ray

X-rays are a form of radiation similar to light waves but with a higher energy, that enables them to pass through body tissue.

The parts that allow x-rays through (such as air in the lungs) show up black on the film. A collection of fluid in the stomach or lung will show up as grey or ‘a shadow’. Soft tissue such as muscle and body organs show up as various shades of grey and dense parts of the body such as bone show up white.

The doctor will show you your x-ray and point out any abnormalities such as a bone fracture or shadow on the lung.