X-Ray Examinations
An x-ray (radio-graph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps medical providers diagnose and treat medical conditions. With occupational medicals the primary concern is with work related exposures to harmful substances, be they dusts or gases, and the subsequent pulmonary disorders that may occur as a result. Substances known to cause lung disease include coal dust, Asbestos, Silicon (which is usually in the form of quartz) and Barium.
Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. There is very little radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the benefits outweigh the risks. Pregnant women are recommended to be exposed to as little radiation as possible and must complete the x-ray after giving birth.
The chest x-ray is the most commonly performed diagnostic x-ray examination. A chest x-ray produces images of the heart, lungs, airways, blood vessels and the bones of the spine and chest. The need for a chest x-ray varies based on the scope of work the employee is exposed to. Among others it is frequently used to detect TB. Chest x-ray examinations are done on new employees or together with the annual employee medical. On individuals who are known to have been positive and have completed their 9 months of anti-TB medication, further chest x-rays ARE NOT needed unless the individual has symptoms or signs of TB.
Examples of Lung Diseases commonly found in the occupational environment: