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I have persistent cough, however my doctor says there is no need for a X-ray. Should I still go for one?
I have been having persistent cough and cold for the last two weeks. I have been on bronchodilators. I asked my doctor if I should get a X-ray done since I believe this is more serious than what it appears to be. However, the doctor does not feel so. Should I still go for an X-ray?
8 Answers
Give it more time. If the doctor does not hear anything on auscultation the Xray may not provide much information, other than to reassure you, which resolution of symptoms over time might also do. Be patient.
If it continues for a month or longer you should probably have a CT scan of the chest which is far superior to plain x rays particularly if you have a smoking history
Yes, and be sure it is compared to previous chest X-ray.
Yes.
A chest X-ray is more sensitive at detecting lung abnormalities than a stethoscope.
That is a judgement call.
If you are or have been a smoker or have been in trades that might cause lung disease, it might be a good Idea. Exposure to asbestos might also warrant a chest study. Chronic exposure to smoke as in fire fighting could also trigger a need. A chest x-ray is a screening study. I don’t know your age either.