From a small bone fracture to something as big as a CT scan, X-rays are being used for medicinal purposes since their inception. This electromagnetic wave has proven to be of great importance to humans but there are downsides to X-Rays too. Yes, X-Rays can be harmful and while in a hospital you must have noticed the aprons worn by nurses and doctors who work near X-ray emitting machines, those are not any usual aprons, those are X-ray lead aprons.
How are X-Rays harmful?
X-rays emit radiation that can cause serious damage to the human body. Its effects are something very prominent but at other times it can take years to discover the harm its exposure has caused to the body. So, here are some very side effects that you might encounter if you happen to be exposed to X-rays.
Note: It is not necessary that this radiation can appear instantly rather it can be a result of prolonged exposure to radiation. This can be prevented by instead of a lead apron for patients and doctors and nurses.
• X-ray radiation can cause temporary side effects. These side effects can range from vomiting and headaches to nausea. The side effects can also be allergic. Example- itching. But these can be treated immediately by consulting a doctor. The doctor can prescribe proper medication and the side effects can disappear in no time. However, these effects can last longer if you are exposed to x-ray on a regular basis.
• X-ray radiation can also be caused whose effects would go on from one generation to the other. Yes, there are chances that due to long exposure to radiation your body might be subjected to cell mutation which is one of the reasons for cancer. Yes, radiation can cause something as deadly as cancer. The effect is not seen immediately but it takes years before the one being exposed to the radiation discovers this.
The underlying statement here is that taking protection from such harmful radiation rays is important. Apart from something like a lead apron, regular body checkups are also important. This can alarm the doctors if there is any irregular growth or disorder in the body occurring. If you are someone who works closely with the x-ray film make sure you wear your lead aprons properly and protect those precious organs of yours.
