Avoiding radiation

[Lyra]

Do you make a point to lower your exposure to radiation when possible? I do, and I am constantly surprised at how many medical professionals blow off the risk.

Here is an example. When I broke my toe a few Christmases ago, I went in a few months later when it didn't seem to be healing great. The doctor wanted to do an x-ray. I asked if an x-ray would change the course of treatment. He said no, but then did some fast talking to pressure me into getting the x-ray. I got it, and he basically admitted he just wanted it for confirmation.

It seems like just one x-ray, but they add up over the course of your life.

 

[Valerienne]

I agree that we should avoid radiation if it's unnecessary, especially continuous exposition. But a few x-rays over decades are not going to do any damage. The amount of absorbed radiation only adds up if it's continuous. Body cells regenerate, after all, so even if x-rays were strong enough to weaken them, they'd regenerate. I think tanning beds can be more harmful.