<p style="text-align:justify"><strong>A chest X-ray in two projections</strong> (PA and lateral) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure using X-rays. This method allows for the examination of the lungs, heart, and bones in the thoracic region. Thanks to advanced equipment, radiation exposure has been reduced tenfold, and image clarity significantly improved. Digital X-rays produce much clearer images compared to older-generation machines and can be delivered to the patient in electronic format.</p><p style="text-align:justify"><strong>When is a chest X-ray indicated?</strong></p><ol><li style="text-align:justify">Persistent cough lasting more than 2&ndash;3 weeks</li><li style="text-align:justify">Cough with large amounts of phlegm (sputum)</li><li style="text-align:justify">Presence of blood in sputum</li><li style="text-align:justify">Shortness of breath (dyspnea)</li><li style="text-align:justify">Ongoing chest pain or back pain</li><li style="text-align:justify">Elevated body temperature lasting more than 2&ndash;3 weeks</li></ol><p style="text-align:justify"><strong>What can the radiologist assess in a chest X-ray?</strong></p><ol><li style="text-align: justify;">Infectious lung diseases (pneumonia, bronchopneumonia, pleurisy, tuberculosis)</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Bronchitis</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Tuberculosis</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pulmonary, bronchial, or tracheal neoplasms</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Inflammatory diseases of the pleura (pleurisy, pleural empyema)</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pulmonary embolism</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pneumothorax (mechanical rupture of lung tissue)</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Parasitic lung diseases (e.g., echinococcosis)</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Diseases of the thoracic spine</li></ol><p style="text-align:justify"><strong>* X-rays are contraindicated during pregnancy unless strictly prescribed by a physician.</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify">Procedure duration: 5&ndash;10 minutes</p><ul><li>No special preparation is required. Before the exam, all metal objects such as jewelry and piercings must be removed.</li></ul>