What is a Chest X-Ray?

A Chest X-Ray is a diagnostic imaging test that produces images of the lungs, heart, airways, ribs, and surrounding chest structures. It is commonly used to assess respiratory symptoms, chest pain, infections, and structural abnormalities.

When performed as a home visit, a portable X-ray system is used by a qualified radiographer to obtain high-quality diagnostic images in a safe and controlled environment. This service is particularly suitable for individuals who are unwell, immobile, elderly, or advised to avoid clinic attendance.

The scan uses a low dose of ionising radiation and is quick, painless, and non-invasive.

When a Chest X-Ray is recommended

A Chest X-Ray is often recommended to investigate respiratory or cardiac-related symptoms or to monitor known conditions.

You may be referred for a home Chest X-Ray if you:

• Have a persistent cough or shortness of breath
• Experience chest pain or tightness
• Have suspected chest infection or pneumonia
• Require follow-up imaging for lung conditions
• Have suspected fluid around the lungs
• Need imaging but are unable to attend a clinic
• Are elderly, bedbound, or recovering from illness
• Require assessment in a home or care setting

Benefits of a Chest X-Ray (Home Visit)

• Assesses lung and chest health
  Evaluates lungs, airways, heart size, and chest structures.
• Supports diagnosis of respiratory conditions
  Useful for infections, fluid, or lung changes.
• Convenient home-based imaging
  No need to travel or attend a clinic.
• Ideal for unwell or immobile patients
  Reduces physical strain and stress.
• Quick and non-invasive procedure
  Imaging completed within minutes.
• Low radiation exposure
  Uses medically controlled X-ray doses.
• Professional radiographer-led service
  Performed using certified portable equipment.
• Suitable for monitoring existing conditions
  Enables follow-up imaging at home.

How the Chest X-Ray is performed at home

The Chest X-Ray is carried out by a qualified radiographer using portable imaging equipment.

• Equipment is set up in a suitable area of your home
• You may be asked to stand, sit, or remain in bed
• Images are taken from one or more angles
• You will be asked to remain still briefly

No injections or contrast agents are required, and the visit is usually completed efficiently.

Understanding your Chest X-Ray results

Normal findings

The lungs appear clear, with normal heart size and no visible abnormalities.

Typical report:

• Normal chest X-ray

Signs of infection or inflammation

The scan may show areas of opacity, consolidation, or fluid, which may indicate infection or inflammation.

Typical report:

• Changes suggestive of chest infection

Structural or chronic changes

Findings may include lung scarring, fluid accumulation, or changes in heart size.

Typical report:

• Structural or chronic chest changes noted

Results are interpreted by a qualified clinician in conjunction with symptoms and medical history.