Medical Imaging Myths You Should Stop Believing Right Now
By Space Coast Daily // April 14, 2022
The advancement in medical science has improved patient care significantly. Diagnostic evaluation is an area worth talking about because early detection of diseases saves millions of lives. While practitioners have been relying on medical imaging for decades, some myths and misconceptions prevail.
Patients feel apprehensive about getting scanned. They even end up reaching advanced stages of the disease. It is crucial to steer clear of the myths and understand that these tests are accurate and safe. Nowadays especially with modern medicine incorporating AI in radiology making it more precise and reliable, it is considered far more advanced and used more with a help of medical imaging software companies. Let us list a few medical imaging myths you should stop believing right now.
Myth #1- All radiation is harmful
If you want to avoid medical imaging because you think that all radiation is harmful, you must get your facts right. Humans bear radiation exposure in more than one way. You may absorb it in trace amounts from food and water. Cell phones and smoke detectors are other sources of radiation. You get exposed to cosmic radiation on long-distance flights. They do not cause harm because the exposure is minimal. Imaging technologists ensure minimal exposure during testing.
Myth #2- X-rays are outdated
The fact is that X-rays continue to be the most common imaging test even today, so there is no reason to consider them outdated. Doctors depend on X-rays to examine bone, soft tissue, and dental conditions and injuries. You will find them in broad use across medical and dental offices, clinics, and hospitals. So you need not think twice about getting an X-ray the next time your provider asks for it.
Myth #3- Medical imaging costs a fortune
Although medical imaging tests can cost a significant sum, they are worthwhile. They ensure timely detection of serious health issues, and you can save a fortune with early treatment. The good thing is that these tests are available at subsidized costs in public healthcare facilities. Since these hospitals are often crowded, they provide HA Referral Cases to help patients secure hefty discounts from private centers. Medical imaging is accessible to all, so you can go ahead without worries.
Myth #4- Scans can affect your fertility
Research studies that the fertility risks from radiological imaging such as CT scans and X-rays are negligible. However, technologists still take relevant precautions to limit the effects of radiation on the reproductive organs. They ask you to wear a lead-lined apron to cut the amount of radiation absorbed during the scan. The next time you get a scan, do not worry about your fertility!
Myth #5- Pregnant women should not get X-rays
Radiation can affect the fetus during the first trimester when its organs are still developing. But it is possible to avoid the risks and perform an X-ray for a pregnant woman safely by taking some essential precautions. For example, the patient is made to wear a lead apron to cover the abdomen while scanning extremities. However, your doctor is the best person to assess the situation and weigh the risks and benefits it entails.
Medical imaging is life-saving in many cases as it ensures early detection and timely treatment of diseases. You can ditch these misconceptions and rely on an expert to do it safely for you.
