Radiation Exposure: Safety Concerns and Accumulation Effects

Radiation issues

In April 2024, I underwent 20 X-rays for both shoulders, neck, and spine.
In mid-April, another hospital performed 10 X-rays on my neck and shoulders.
At the beginning of May, I had a chest X-ray during a health check, and according to the National Health Insurance App, my radiation exposure has already reached 35.
On June 16, I had a CT scan of my head, and on June 18, I am scheduled for an MRI of the head and neck, as well as an EEG.
My total radiation exposure in 2023 was 25, and I have already accumulated 35 in 2024, with the June exposure not yet accounted for.
Given that the CT scan of the brain, MRI of the head and neck, and EEG are scheduled so closely together, is there a concern that my radiation exposure is too high? Is there a safety concern? Does radiation accumulate in the body, or is it expelled? Thank you, doctor.

Jia You, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/17

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello, the consideration for X-ray radiation examinations is based on the necessity of the examination rather than limiting the radiation dose or the number of tests.
X-ray radiation is a form of energy, similar to sunlight, and does not remain in the body after exposure.
After an X-ray, the radiation does not stay in the human body, so there is no concern about "how to eliminate radiation from the body." Diagnostic X-rays are classified as low-dose radiation examinations and are reported to be safe according to the literature.
Following your doctor's advice to undergo radiation-related examinations is based on the assessment that the health benefits outweigh the effects of radiation.
If you have concerns, it is advisable to communicate with your physician before proceeding with the examination.
Do not avoid tests out of fear of radiation, as this may lead to missing critical treatment opportunities for diseases.
Please take this into consideration, and I wish you peace and good health.

Reply Date: 2024/06/17

More Info

Radiation exposure from medical imaging is a valid concern, especially when multiple procedures are performed in a short period. Understanding the safety concerns and cumulative effects of radiation is crucial for patients who undergo frequent imaging studies.

First, let's discuss the types of imaging you mentioned. X-rays and CT (computed tomography) scans use ionizing radiation, which can contribute to cumulative radiation exposure. In contrast, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) does not use ionizing radiation; instead, it employs magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the body. Therefore, MRI does not contribute to your radiation exposure.

The radiation dose from various imaging modalities can vary significantly. For example, a standard chest X-ray typically delivers about 0.1 mSv (millisieverts) of radiation, while a CT scan of the abdomen may deliver around 10 mSv or more, depending on the specific protocol used. The cumulative effect of radiation exposure is a concern because higher doses can increase the risk of radiation-induced effects, including cancer.

In your case, you mentioned receiving multiple X-rays and a CT scan within a short timeframe. The total radiation exposure you've reported (35 mSv) is relatively high compared to the average annual background radiation exposure, which is about 3 mSv. However, it is essential to consider the context of your medical needs. If these imaging studies were necessary for diagnosing or monitoring a medical condition, the benefits may outweigh the risks.

Regarding your specific questions about safety and the accumulation of radiation in the body, it is important to note that radiation does not accumulate in the body in the same way that some substances do. Instead, the body absorbs the energy from radiation, and any potential harmful effects are related to the dose and the biological response to that dose. The body does not store radiation; rather, it can cause damage to cells, which may lead to long-term effects, including an increased risk of cancer.

To address your concern about the timing of your CT scan and MRI, it is important to remember that MRI does not contribute to radiation exposure. Therefore, the proximity of these two tests should not raise concerns about cumulative radiation effects. However, if you are concerned about the total amount of radiation exposure from your X-rays and CT scans, it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand the necessity of each imaging study and whether alternative imaging methods could be considered in the future.

In summary, while your reported radiation exposure is higher than average, the safety of such exposure depends on the context of your medical care. It is crucial to weigh the risks and benefits of each imaging study. If you have ongoing concerns about radiation exposure, consider discussing them with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the necessity of the imaging studies performed. Always remember that the goal of medical imaging is to provide valuable diagnostic information while minimizing risks to the patient.

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