The doctor dispelled myths about X-rays and talked about examinations without the risk of radiation

X-rays remain an important diagnostic tool, but there are still lingering fears around them. On November 24, Oksana Platonova, chief physician of the diagnostic department of JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), PhD, radiologist of the highest category, explained to Izvestia which of them do not correspond to reality and why refusing an examination may be riskier than the radiation itself.

According to her, radiation is used only in certain types of research, and not all diagnostic methods are associated with radiation exposure. Ultrasound and MRI work on ultrasound waves and a magnetic field, so they remain completely safe even for pregnant women. She clarified that X-rays are used only in radiography, fluorography and CT, while other methods do not carry radiation exposure.

"Nursing women can safely undergo dental X-rays, fluorography, and mammography. Radiation does not affect either breast milk or the baby. But pregnant women are only prescribed X—rays for strict indications — and they must protect their stomachs with a lead apron," the specialist said.

In addition, Platonova added that modern devices provide minimal doses. To get a harmful load, you need to take hundreds of pictures in a row — in real practice, this is impossible. For comparison, an X—ray of a tooth is about 30 µSv, fluorography is about 500 µSv, whereas a dose of more than 50 thousand µSv per year is considered dangerous.

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The widespread fear about the dangers of dental X-rays is also not confirmed. The beam focuses strictly on the desired area, and the surrounding tissues are protected.

"X—rays are electromagnetic radiation, just like ultraviolet, light or heat. Yes, at high doses it can damage cells, but sunburn does the same thing. Getting a tan on the beach without protection is much more dangerous than getting a fluorography once a year," the doctor explained.

Platonova stressed that it is much more dangerous to miss a disease than to undergo an X-ray diagnosis. Modern equipment minimizes risks, and timely examination allows you to quickly detect pathologies and begin treatment.

Dermatologist, cosmetologist, co-owner of a network of clinics, Dr. Zarema Omarova, told Izvestia on September 21 that exposure to ultraviolet rays is one of the most common causes of excessive pigmentation. The more intense the sun's rays, the more pigment will accumulate in the skin.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.