Does having an x-ray have any risks?

X-rays are of a type of radiation known as ionising radiation. The dose that you get from a medical x-ray is very low and the associated risks are minimal. The radiation you will receive is equivalent to that which we all receive from the atmosphere over a period of 2-3 days. The radiographer is responsible for making sure that your dose is kept as low as possible and that the benefits of having the x-ray outweigh any risk.

It is important to tell your doctor and the radiographer if there is any possibility that you are pregnant as radiation can be harmful for an unborn baby.   

Please inform the radiographer if you have had a similar x-ray recently. Each x-ray request will be checked by the radiographer to make sure it is properly justified and necessary.