Radiology• Updated 21 October 2026
Chest X-ray
An X-ray of the chest to look at the lungs, heart and ribs.
Results: Usually the same day
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To look for pneumonia, TB, lung cancer, heart enlargement and fluid around the lungs.
What It Measures
Images of lungs, heart, blood vessels and ribs.
Preparation
Remove metal from the chest area. Tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Overview
A chest X-ray is one of the most common tests for cough, breathlessness and fever.
In India it's widely used to screen for TB.
What It Measures
Lungs
Infection, scarring, masses and fluid.
Heart
Size and shape.
How It's Performed
- 01
Positioning
Stand against the plate and take a deep breath.
- 02
Picture
Hold your breath for a second.
- 03
Afterwards
Return to normal activities.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- X-Rays(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- X-ray(opens in a new tab) · NHS