Not every ache needs imaging—but these red flags do
We’ve all been there. A weird pain, a lingering injury, or maybe just a “this doesn’t feel right” kind of moment. The question is—when do you actually need an X-ray? In Morehead City, where active lifestyles, work-related injuries, and aging joints are common, knowing when to seek digital imaging can help you avoid unnecessary stress (and bigger issues later).
X-rays are still one of the fastest and most reliable ways to diagnose everything from fractures to pneumonia. They use a controlled dose of ionizing radiation to capture clear images of bones and certain tissues. And with today’s digital X-ray technology, results are often available almost instantly—making it easier for your care team to act fast if something’s wrong.
Still unsure? Here are 5 signs your body might be quietly asking for one.
1. Pain after a fall or injury that doesn’t go away
If you’ve taken a spill—at work, during sports, or just slipping on a step—and the pain hasn’t improved in a few days, it’s time to rule out a break or fracture. Even small bone injuries can lead to chronic pain if left untreated.
2. Swelling and limited movement in a joint
When inflammation lingers in your knee, shoulder, or wrist, it could point to a bone spur, joint damage, or an old injury flaring up. An X-ray helps your provider pinpoint what’s going on under the surface.
3. Chronic coughing or chest discomfort
While we don’t jump to imaging for every cough, an X-ray can help detect conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or even heart-related fluid buildup—especially if symptoms last more than a few days.
4. Pain that keeps waking you up at night
If your back, hip, or other joints are interrupting your sleep, it may be more than just muscle soreness. Persistent pain could stem from arthritis, degeneration, or even tiny stress fractures—X-rays help catch them early.
5. A suspected foreign object or swallowed item
It happens more than you think—especially with kids. If you suspect something was swallowed or embedded under the skin, X-rays are the quickest way to confirm and guide treatment.
Not sure if you need an X-ray? Don’t guess—get clarity
At Atlantic Coast Medical Center, we offer fast, on-site X-Ray Services using modern digital imaging, so there’s no waiting around or bouncing between locations. Whether you’re coming in for Acute Illness Treatment, Preventative Care, or Yearly Wellness Visits, our team makes sure your care is clear, efficient, and local to Morehead City. Let’s take the guesswork out of your next visit—Contact Us to get started.