When You May Need Imaging
Imaging tests can help healthcare providers look inside the body to evaluate symptoms, injuries, or possible disease. Imaging may include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, mammograms, and other studies.
Imaging is useful when it is medically appropriate, but not every symptom needs imaging right away.
Common types of imaging
X-ray
X-rays are often used to evaluate bones, chest symptoms, certain injuries, or possible pneumonia.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves and does not use radiation. It may be used to evaluate the abdomen, pelvis, gallbladder, thyroid, veins, soft tissue concerns, or pregnancy-related concerns.
CT scan
CT scans use X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images. They may be used for certain abdominal symptoms, head injuries, chest symptoms, kidney stones, or other urgent concerns.
MRI
MRI uses magnets and radio waves. It is often used to evaluate soft tissues, joints, brain, spine, and certain neurologic or musculoskeletal conditions.
Mammogram
Mammograms are used for breast cancer screening and evaluation of certain breast symptoms.
When imaging may be needed
Imaging may be considered for:
Injury with concern for fracture
Severe or worsening abdominal pain
Possible kidney stone
Persistent cough with concerning symptoms
Chest symptoms when clinically appropriate
New neurologic symptoms
Severe headache with red flags
Breast lump or abnormal breast screening
Joint pain after trauma
Back pain with neurologic symptoms
Unexplained swelling or mass
Why imaging is not always ordered immediately
Imaging should be based on symptoms, exam findings, risk factors, duration, and red flags. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are designed to help clinicians choose appropriate imaging based on specific clinical situations.
Sometimes imaging is not helpful early in an illness or injury. For example, many mild back pain cases improve without imaging unless red flags are present.
Imaging risks and limitations
Imaging can be very helpful, but it also has limits. Some tests involve radiation. Some may find incidental findings that are not dangerous but lead to worry or more testing. Some imaging may not show the cause of symptoms.
The right test depends on the symptom and clinical concern.
Symptoms that should not wait for outpatient imaging
Seek urgent or emergency care for:
Chest pain
Trouble breathing
Stroke symptoms
Severe headache with neurologic changes
Severe abdominal pain
Fainting
Severe weakness
New confusion
Major trauma
Severe allergic reaction symptoms
Signs of sepsis or serious infection
Can telehealth help?
Yes. Telehealth can help review symptoms, determine whether imaging may be appropriate, discuss red flags, and guide next steps. Some imaging concerns may require in-person evaluation first, especially if a physical exam is needed.
Final thought
Imaging is most useful when it answers a specific medical question. The goal is to choose the right test at the right time, not simply order more tests.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, signs of infection, severe allergic reaction symptoms, trouble breathing, or a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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