A plain X-ray quickly and painlessly produces an image using a small amount of ionising radiation. It is particularly useful for bones and lungs. Tell staff beforehand if you might be pregnant, but do not delay medically necessary imaging because of fear.
- You cannot feel X-rays, and taking the image itself does not hurt.
- A position may hurt if you have a fracture or another injury.
- Always tell staff before the X-ray if you are pregnant or might be pregnant.
- Bring previous images or reports if they are not available digitally.
- Get in touch if your result is not discussed within the agreed time.
- For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.
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General information, not personal medical advice
This article has been carefully prepared but may contain errors or become outdated as medical knowledge changes. It does not replace diagnosis, examination or treatment by your own GP. Always discuss personal questions and starting, stopping or changing medicines or treatments with your own GP.
For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912. For urgent care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
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