Common Myths about Radiology You Should Never Believe

Recently, the rate of diseases has been rising alarmingly. Some illnesses are mild and require non-invasive treatment, while severe infections may need surgeries. The provider performs different scans and imaging to detect and treat a condition during surgery comprehensively. Several individuals are benefiting from West New York radiology in diagnosis and treatment. Without radiology, the diagnosis of injuries and illnesses would not be accurate and definitive. However, misinformation about radiology has been spreading across the internet that can frighten you. Below are common myths about radiology you should never believe.

Radiation Is Risky for Everyone

Amazingly, each individual is exposed to radiation in their daily life. For instance, you may be exposed to radon gas in the soil and from space. Regardless if you do not have a medical scan, you are prone to exposure to radiation. Moreover, the food you eat may contain radiation if grown in radioactive soil. Unfortunately, no evidence shows people eating these foods are less healthy. Radiologists pick minor doses of radiation and apply imaging without radiation when necessary.

Medical Radiation Can Make You Radioactive

Radiation therapy is one of the popular cancer treatments. During the procedure, your healthcare providers utilize radiation to kill cancer cells. In some instances, some normal cells are affected. Nevertheless, many healthy cells return to their normal function shortly. Unlike chemotherapy, radiation therapy focuses on cancer cells or tumors and does not travel throughout your body. However, radiation therapy can be given intravenously or orally for some cancer lowering your vulnerability to being radioactive.

MRI Is the Most Effective Diagnostic Imaging Procedure

During the MRI scan, doctors use an intense magnetic field to receive an image of your internal organ where the scan is radiation-free. In some instances, the MRI is a scan of choice, for example, brain visualizations. However, in some cases, practitioners can recommend a CAT scan or ultrasound. Particularly for an emergency requiring speed of reaction, your healthcare providers may prefer an X-ray to MRI, which takes about 30 minutes per imaging. 

Radiology, like X-rays, Causes Cancer

Normally, x-rays are harmful if your provider does them incorrectly. The harmful nature occurs because the x-rays pass through your body and destroy cells. Some studies purported that the damage could lead to cancer. However, the dosage you get in every exam is similar to the background radiation you obtain daily in your environment. For your peace of mind, the chances of having cancer are raised by a 100th of percent if you are required to undergo two x-rays annually.

Scans with Radiations Affect Fertility

Some people are becoming afraid of undergoing a scan due to the fear of losing their fertility. Your fertility could be at risk if you are exposed to large doses of radiation. There is no evidence showing any female has been unable to give birth due to damages resulting from a medical scan with radiation. If you cannot get pregnant after undergoing a scan or imaging, your issues might result from other conditions, including your lifestyle.

If you are suspicious of an underlying concern, you should consult your healthcare provider. Your provider can recommend scans or imaging for a clear diagnosis and treatment during the examinations. You should not be worried about the side effects of a scan due to what people say, as it may be false. Your doctor will explain everything you ask before starting the scan to ensure you have peace of mind during the procedure. As a result, your underlying condition will be detected and addressed before it worsens.