Is There Increased Risk Of Radiation In Taking CT And X-ray Scans?

Posted on Sun, 25 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 25 Jan 2015 Answered on

Mon, 23 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I recently had a CT scan looking for kidney stones. I also had multiple neck, spine, teeth xrays this year. Am I at increased risk for too much radiation / tumors now?

Answered by Dr. Jyothi B L (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Single CT and different location X-ray - No increased risk.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

1. CT scan contains more radiation that X-rays, almost 100 times and usually should not be more than 2 times/ year.
2. The other X-rays at various locations are present and carry very very low risk. As all radiation are different locations, the risk is also very less.
3. No, you are not at increased risk of tumors / radiation now.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
If you do not have any further queries, you can close the discussion and rate the answer.
Take Care.
Dr. Jyothi BL

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Jyothi B L (37 minutes later)

Should I be concerned about the CT scan then? I also had one of head

Answered by Dr. Jyothi B L (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No, you need not be concerned.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking again.

Upto 2-3 CT scan per year, should not be problem. Not to worry.

Hope it helps.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
If you do not have any further queries, you can close the discussion and rate the answer.
Take Care.
Dr. Jyothi BL

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj