Radiologist Questions X-Rays

Are x-rays dangerous for the elderly?

My mother is 68 and needs to get a x-ray done. Are x-rays dangerous for older people? Mainly because of the radiation exposure.

6 Answers

X-rays are more harmful to children compared with the elderly. Elderly people are much less sensitive to the effects of X-rays. Children are much more sensitive and therefore attempts are made to reduce X-ray exposure in children.
Hope this helps.

Brian
No.
If her doctor feels that your mother needs an X-ray, that is fine.
The CT and x-ray are the only imaging modalities that involve radiation. There is only a small amount of radiation involved with x-rays, especially compared to CT. It is definitely safe when medically indicated.
No
No, old people don't grow, so they are better to receive X-rays than the young.