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Chest X-ray in children

A Chest X-ray in children is a x-ray test of the chest. It shows pneumonia, inhaled objects, heart size. Typical effective dose 0.01 to 0.02 mSv, similar to a few days 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

Pneumonia, inhaled objects, heart size.

Why it is done

Cough with fast breathing, suspected foreign body.

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 0.01 to 0.02 mSv, similar to a few days 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.

Related conditions

entry-health-condition-pneumonia

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 child chest x-ray show?
Pneumonia, inhaled objects, heart size.

Why is a child chest x-ray done?
Cough with fast breathing, suspected foreign body.

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

Does a child chest x-ray use radiation?
Typical effective dose 0.01 to 0.02 mSv, similar to a few days 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 child chest x-ray take?
a few minutes

Why is Chest X-ray in children done?
Cough with fast breathing, suspected foreign body.

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

Is Chest X-ray in children safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 0.01 to 0.02 mSv, similar to a few days 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