X-rays: Who Should Avoid Them? Risks & Precautions

* Pregnant women: X-rays use radiation, which can harm the developing fetus. Pregnant women should only get x-rays if they are absolutely necessary and if the potential benefits of the x-rays outweigh the risks.

* Children: Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults, so they should only get x-rays if they are absolutely necessary.

* People with certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as cancer, can make people more sensitive to radiation. People with these conditions should only get x-rays if they are absolutely necessary.

* People who are allergic to contrast dye: Some x-rays use a contrast dye to help visualize certain body parts. People who are allergic to contrast dye should not get these types of x-rays.