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Abdominal X-ray

A Abdominal X-ray is a x-ray test of the abdomen. It shows bowel gas pattern, obstruction, some kidney stones, swallowed objects. Typical effective dose 0.4 to 0.7 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Bowel gas pattern, obstruction, some kidney stones, swallowed objects.

Why it is done

Severe belly pain, suspected bowel blockage or perforation.

Preparation

Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 0.4 to 0.7 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

a few minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

X-ray

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Where to get this near you

Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

What does a abdomen x-ray show?
Bowel gas pattern, obstruction, some kidney stones, swallowed objects.

Why is a abdomen x-ray done?
Severe belly pain, suspected bowel blockage or perforation.

How do I prepare for a abdomen x-ray?
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.

Does a abdomen x-ray use radiation?
Typical effective dose 0.4 to 0.7 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a abdomen x-ray take?
a few minutes

Why is Abdominal X-ray done?
Severe belly pain, suspected bowel blockage or perforation.

How do I prepare for Abdominal X-ray?
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.

Is Abdominal X-ray safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 0.4 to 0.7 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102