X-rays are a common diagnostic procedure used to examine internal structures such as bones, tissues, and organs. Among the various types of X-rays, the chest X-ray is the most commonly performed. A chest X-ray provides images of the bones of the chest and spine and can also show the heart, blood vessels, airways, and lungs.

This type of X-ray is invaluable for screening and diagnosing a wide range of conditions. It is often ordered by providers in cases of chest pain, injury to the area, breathing difficulties, persistent cough, or fever.

Chest X-rays are used to monitor and diagnose conditions like lung cancer, heart failure, pneumonia, and other heart and lung problems. They can also check for air or fluid collection around the lungs and the positioning of medical devices.

By providing detailed images, chest X-rays help healthcare providers at PrimeHealth Urgent Care confirm diagnoses alongside physical examinations and symptom reviews to facilitate swift treatment interventions.

The choice between an MRI and an X-ray depends on the specific needs of the individual. Both are valuable diagnostic tools but are used for different purposes. X-rays are quicker and more affordable, making them suitable for examining bones and certain tissues.

However, they may be less effective for identifying problems that require high-contrast resolution of soft tissues as well as other areas. MRIs, on the other hand, take multiple images across different areas of the body, offering detailed views of nerves, brain, ligaments, muscles, spine, and tendons.

While more expensive, MRIs are often recommended for evaluating soft tissue issues, brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, and more. At PrimeHealth Urgent Care, providers will typically recommend an MRI when necessary, especially for detailed examinations that X-rays cannot adequately provide.

X-rays come in various forms, each tailored to examine different parts of the body for specific diagnostic or screening purposes, and will be recommended by providers as needed.

Conventional radiology X-rays are used primarily to view bones, calcium-dense tissues, and the chest, and for dental examinations. Computed tomography (CT) scans utilize computer processing to enhance the resolution of traditional X-rays, creating cross-sectional images of the skeleton, organs, tissues, and abnormalities.

Angiography combines X-rays with a contrast agent to improve the visibility of organs, arteries, and veins, helping diagnose blockages or problems within blood vessels. Mammography provides detailed images of the breast and is particularly useful for cancer screening.

Fluoroscopy produces real-time images of movement within the body, often used to observe blood flow or the beating heart and assist in treatments such as catheter or pacemaker placement.

Providers at PrimeHealth Urgent Care can discuss available X-ray options with patients and guide them towards the most appropriate type for their needs.

A full-body X-ray is known as a CT scan or CAT scan. CT scans offer providers detailed cross-sectional images of the body’s tissues and organs, helping to identify a range of conditions such as bone damage, blood flow issues, internal injuries, and tumors.

During a CT scan, patients lie on a table while multiple X-ray images are taken from different angles, providing comprehensive views of the internal structures.

CT scans can be particularly useful in diagnosing conditions like musculoskeletal disorders, cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases, and trauma.

They can evaluate chest and lung problems, detect tumors, and offer detailed information that aids in treatment planning and surgical preparation.

For individuals at high risk of cancer, such as smokers, CT scans can be especially beneficial for the early detection of certain types of cancer. Early detection of cancer is associated with mitigated risks and improved health outcomes.

X-ray services are available at PrimeHealth Urgent Care to assist with diagnostic and screening needs. For more information, please contact us today or book an appointment online now! We are conveniently located at 20321 Grande Oaks Shoppes Dr. unit 308 Estero, FL 33928. We serve patients from Estero FL, Stoneybrook FL, Cascades FL, El Dorado Acres FL, and surrounding areas.