X-ray

An X-ray is a painless imaging test that creates pictures of the inside of your body. X-rays use beams of radiation that pass through your body and are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the material they pass through. Dense materials like bones appear white, while less dense tissues like muscle and fat appear as shades of gray.

X-ray is used to examine various parts of the body. For example:  

Bone X-rays: 

• Detect fractures, infections, and arthritis progression 
• Measure bone mineral density for osteoporosis assessment 
• Identify bone tumours, including cancer 

Chest X-rays: 

• Show lung infections, tuberculosis, or lung cancer 
• Perform mammography for breast cancer screening 
• Display an enlarged heart and detect blocked blood vessels 

Abdomen X-rays: 

• Diagnose digestive tract issues. 
• Locate swallowed foreign objects 

Before your X-ray:

• You do not need to make any physical preparations for an X-ray test 
• Make sure you don’t wear jewelry or clothing with metallic items 
• X-ray tests are walk-in appointments on a first-come, first-served basis 
• Inform the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be 
• You should avoid X-rays during the last two weeks of your menstrual period 
  
  

During your X-ray:

• The technologist may ask you to change into a paper gown and remove your clothing 
• Some X-ray tests may require the injecting or ingesting of an X-ray dye, which can cause discomfort 
• Let your physician or technician know if you have experienced an allergic reaction to X-ray dyes 
• During the X-ray, please remain still while the technologist performs the procedure 
• The X-ray procedure is quick, usually lasting only a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the number of images required. 

After your X-ray:

• Once the test is complete, you can resume your normal activities 
• You may be asked to remain at the facility while the images are being developed to ensure clarity. This is standard practice and does not necessarily indicate any abnormalities. 

At WELL Health Diagnostic Centres, X-rays are a walk-in service. As a result, X-ray patients are seen on a first come, first served basis and a waiting period could be required.  

For more information about walk-in X-ray services in Ontario, visit myhealthcentre.ca 

You can use the WELL Clinics website to quickly find an X-ray clinic near you, select the button below to get started.