Is Frequent X-Ray Exposure for Kidney Stones Safe? Risks and Recommendations

X-ray of the lumbar region for kidney stones?

Hello, I have been experiencing kidney stone pain since mid-May.
I had an X-ray on May 11, and when I went to the lithotripsy center on May 16, they said they would take another X-ray to confirm the location, which was done on the lithotripsy table without changing into a gown.
I had another X-ray on May 20, and on June 4, although the lithotripsy machine was out of order, they took an X-ray.
On June 6, I underwent lithotripsy, and I'm not sure if they took an X-ray then.
I had another X-ray during my follow-up on June 14.
Later, on July 15, I went to a different facility for an X-ray and had lithotripsy that same day, where they also took an X-ray without changing clothes.
I had another X-ray on July 29.
This averages to about two X-rays per month.
Is this too much? Should I stop having X-rays? Could this be excessive, and what effects might it have? Thank you.

Susan, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/30

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the radiation dose from a single abdominal X-ray is approximately 0.7 millisieverts.
The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) report 103 states that doses below 100 millisieverts (including single or multiple exposures) do not cause clinically significant functional impairment.
When considering X-ray examinations, the necessity of the procedure should be evaluated rather than limiting the radiation dose or the number of examinations.
Following your physician's recommendations for radiation-related tests is important, as the health benefits often outweigh the risks associated with radiation exposure.
If you have concerns, it is advisable to discuss them with your doctor before undergoing the examination.
Do not avoid tests out of fear of radiation, as this may lead to missed opportunities for disease treatment.
Please take this into consideration, and wish you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2022/07/30

More Info

Frequent exposure to X-rays, particularly in the context of diagnosing and treating kidney stones, raises valid concerns regarding safety and potential health risks. X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation, which can pose risks if exposure is excessive. However, it is essential to understand the context and the cumulative dose of radiation you may have received.

Understanding X-ray Exposure
1. Radiation Dose: The amount of radiation from a single X-ray varies, but a typical abdominal X-ray delivers a dose of about 0.1 mSv (millisieverts). For comparison, the average person is exposed to about 3 mSv of natural background radiation annually. Medical imaging can significantly increase this exposure, but the actual risk depends on the cumulative dose over time.

2. Cumulative Exposure: If you have had multiple X-rays over a short period, it is crucial to consider the total cumulative dose. For instance, if you had an average of two X-rays per month over several months, this could amount to a significant dose. However, the risk of developing radiation-induced conditions, such as cancer, is generally low at these levels, especially when the total exposure remains below 100 mSv, which is considered a threshold for increased risk.

3. Risk Assessment: The risk associated with X-ray exposure is often outweighed by the benefits of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. In your case, the need for imaging to monitor and treat kidney stones is essential, as untreated stones can lead to severe complications, including kidney damage.

Recommendations
1. Discuss with Your Doctor: It is vital to communicate your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can assess your specific situation, including the necessity of each X-ray and whether alternative imaging methods (like ultrasound or MRI) might be appropriate.
2. Limit Unnecessary Imaging: If you feel that the frequency of X-rays is excessive, ask your doctor if all the imaging was necessary. They may be able to consolidate some imaging sessions or suggest alternative methods that do not involve radiation.

3. Monitor Symptoms: If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, report these to your healthcare provider immediately. They can help determine if these are related to your treatment or imaging.

4. Follow Guidelines: The American College of Radiology and the Radiological Society of North America recommend that imaging should only be performed when the expected benefits outweigh the risks. They also emphasize the importance of using the lowest possible radiation dose to achieve the necessary diagnostic quality.

Conclusion
In summary, while frequent X-ray exposure does carry some risks, the context of your medical condition—kidney stones—often necessitates such imaging for effective management. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your concerns and to ensure that all imaging is justified. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits and make informed decisions about your care. If you have further concerns about radiation exposure and its effects, consider discussing them with a specialist in radiology or a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current treatment plan.

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