LivingCare provides state-of-the-art X-ray services from our clinics in Leeds and Sheffield. Our specialist radiographers deliver fast and accurate imaging ensuring quick access to appointments.
X-ray is an imaging technique that is quick and painless, used to create pictures of your body's internal structures. X-rays are particularly effective for visualising bones, helping to identify fractures and damage, infections, and various medical conditions.
An X-ray is performed by a radiographer, an allied healthcare professional who is specially trained to undertake this procedure. The radiation used during an X-ray is very small and you will be exposed for less than a second. The radiographer will answer any concerns before undertaking the test.
At LivingCare, we offer digital X-ray services at our clinics in Leeds and Sheffield, providing rapid access to this essential diagnostic tool with minimal waiting times and expert interpretation by our consultant radiologists.
This imaging procedure is named after the type of radiation that it uses to produce images – X-rays and these are passed through your body, you wont feel or see anything. The rays are affected in different ways by the tissues of your body and the result picked up by a detector on the other side.
The Xray equipment then translates this information into a greyscale image, denser areas like bone appearing whiter, and softer areas such as the lungs spearing darker.
X-ray imaging remains one of the most commonly used diagnostic tools in medicine. At LivingCare, we typically use X-rays for:
X-rays provide an excellent first-line imaging option for many conditions, delivering valuable diagnostic information quickly and efficiently. They often guide decisions about whether additional imaging, such as CT or MRI, is needed for more complex cases.
Preparing for an X-ray at LivingCare is straightforward. No fasting or special dietary restrictions are typically required, and you can continue taking regular medications as normal.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners, buckles, or zippers, and remove jewellery, eyeglasses, or metal objects from the examined area. You should also inform our team if you are pregnant or might be pregnant.
If your X-ray requires contrast material (such as barium or iodine), our team will provide specific preparation instructions, which may include dietary restrictions or laxatives for bowel studies.
Upon arrival, our radiographer will review your medical history and explain the procedure, answering any questions you may have.
When you have your X-ray:
The actual X-ray exposure lasts only a fraction of a second, though positioning and preparation may take several minutes. The entire appointment typically takes 10-15 minutes for standard X-rays, or longer for more complex studies involving contrast materials.
You can return to your normal activities immediately – you don't need a recovery period after an X-ray. If contrast material was used, drinking extra fluids helps eliminate it from your system.
A comprehensive report is typically available within 24 hours, and our team will ensure this is promptly shared with your referring doctor.
X-ray imaging involves exposure to a small amount of radiation, but modern equipment and techniques have significantly reduced radiation doses.
Radiation Considerations:
The radiation from a standard chest X-ray is approximately equivalent to 3 days of natural background radiation we receive from the environment. Additionally, LivingCare follows the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) to minimise radiation exposure, and our digital systems require less radiation than traditional film X-rays.
Contrast Material Reactions: If your X-ray involves contrast:
Mild reactions occur in approximately 1% of cases, including temporary nausea or a warm sensation. Allergic reactions are rare but possible; you should inform us of any previous reactions or allergies. Our team is trained to manage any reactions that might occur.
Special Considerations for Pregnancy: X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. If you are or might be pregnant, inform our team immediately so alternative imaging can be considered.
One of the advantages of X-ray imaging is that no recovery period is required. You can resume all normal activities immediately with no special aftercare or dietary restrictions.
If contrast material is used for gastrointestinal studies, you may experience temporary changes in bowel movements. In the rare event of delayed symptoms following contrast administration, such as rash or breathing difficulties, seek medical attention immediately.
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Yes, X-rays are considered very safe. The radiation exposure from a standard X-ray is minimal, comparable to the natural background radiation you're exposed to over several days or during a short flight. Modern devices and approaches have reduced doses while maintaining or improving image quality. The diagnostic benefits almost always outweigh the minimal risk.
They're generally avoided during pregnancy unless it's absolutely necessary, particularly during the first trimester. Always inform our team if you are or might be pregnant. If an X-ray is deemed medically necessary, special precautions including abdominal shielding will be taken to protect the developing foetus. Sometimes alternative imaging methods like ultrasound might be recommended instead.
For most standard X-rays, no special preparation is required. You can eat, drink, and take regular medications as normal. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing without metal fasteners. Specific preparation instructions will be provided for certain specialised X-rays involving contrast agents (such as barium studies), which may include fasting or bowel preparation.
The actual X-ray exposure lasts just a fraction of a second. The entire appointment typically takes 10-15 minutes, including positioning and capturing multiple views if necessary. More complex studies involving contrast materials may take up to 30-60 minutes. Results for urgent cases can often be provided immediately, with comprehensive reports available within 24 hours.
Modern X-ray equipment uses the minimum amount of radiation necessary to produce clear images. For perspective, a standard chest X-ray exposes you to approximately the same amount of radiation you would naturally receive from the environment over 3 days. Our digital systems require even less radiation than traditional film X-rays while providing superior image quality.
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Speak to our teamYou can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry. Let us know your preferred appointment type, either virtual or face to face, and we will work to find a time that suits you.
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time, either virtually or in person, with one of our highly qualified consultants. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
You can receive this treatment from one of the consultants listed below.
Explore the various options available for this treatment.
With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists - consultations are offered within 24 hours, with treatment within a week. All costs, including tests or scans, are quoted upfront with no obligation to proceed. Visit our Prices page for full details.
If using medical insurance, contact your provider to confirm coverage for all treatment stages before your first appointment. You’ll need a referral letter from your GP for a private procedure at The LivingCare Group. Once you have it, either you or your GP can book your first appointment with us.