💡 What You Need to Know Right Away
X-ray is an imaging test that uses radiation beams to create pictures of the inside of your body, helping doctors detect broken bones, lung infections, tumors, and other health conditions quickly and painlessly.
Also known as: Radiograph, Radiography, Plain Film, Diagnostic X-ray
- In children with suspected pneumonia, X-ray correctly identifies the condition in about 9 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][3]
- The procedure is painless and typically takes 10-15 minutes, with actual radiation exposure lasting less than one second
- When AI assistance is used for fracture detection, accuracy ranges from 80-95% depending on the body part[Evidence: A][4]
- Radiation dose from a chest X-ray equals about 10 days of natural background radiation, making it very low risk for most people
If your doctor has recommended an X-ray, you might be wondering what to expect, whether it's safe, or how much it will cost. These are all normal concerns.
X-rays are the most common diagnostic imaging test performed worldwide, with over 200 million chest X-rays taken annually in the United States alone. The technology has been used safely for over a century, and modern digital X-ray systems deliver lower radiation doses than ever before while producing clearer images.
In this guide, you'll learn exactly how X-rays work, what happens during the procedure, how to prepare, and what the research shows about safety and accuracy. Whether you're preparing for your first X-ray or want to better understand your results, this evidence-based guide will help you feel informed and confident.
❓ Quick Answers
Is an X-ray safe?
X-rays are safe for most people. The radiation dose from a standard chest X-ray (0.1 mSv) equals about 10 days of natural background radiation from sunlight and the environment. While X-rays use ionizing radiation that carries a very small cancer risk, medical benefits typically outweigh risks when imaging is medically necessary. Your doctor only orders X-rays when the diagnostic benefit is needed.
How does an X-ray work?
X-rays work by sending high-energy radiation beams through your body. Dense tissues like bones absorb the radiation and appear white on the image. Soft tissues like muscles and organs allow more radiation to pass through and appear in shades of gray. This contrast creates a detailed picture that helps doctors identify problems.
What can an X-ray detect?
X-rays can detect many conditions including bone fractures, joint dislocations, arthritis, pneumonia and lung infections, heart enlargement, tumors, kidney stones, swallowed objects, and dental cavities. In children with pneumonia, chest X-rays correctly identify the condition in about 9 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][3].
Do X-rays hurt?
X-rays are completely painless. You cannot feel the radiation passing through your body. However, you may experience minor discomfort from lying on a hard table or holding an injured body part in a specific position. If you have an injury, inform the technologist so they can help minimize discomfort during positioning.
How long does an X-ray take?
Most X-ray procedures take 10-15 minutes total, including positioning and setup. The actual X-ray exposure lasts only 1-3 seconds per image. If multiple views are needed, the entire process may take up to 30 minutes. You can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Can I get an X-ray while pregnant?
The safety of X-rays during pregnancy depends on which body part is being imaged. X-rays of your arms, legs, head, or chest do not directly expose your baby to radiation and are generally safe when medically necessary. Abdominal or pelvic X-rays may expose the fetus to radiation and are typically avoided unless critical. Always tell your technologist if you are or might be pregnant.
The X-Ray Guide
Explore the fundamental science, safety protocols, and clinical applications of Radiography. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how X-rays help doctors see the invisible.
🔬 How Does an X-Ray Work?
Think of an X-ray machine like a very powerful flashlight that shines through your body instead of bouncing off it. Just as sunlight passes through a window but is blocked by a curtain, X-ray beams pass through soft tissues but are stopped by dense structures like bones.
The Science Behind the Image
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to visible light but with much higher energy. When the X-ray machine is activated, it produces a focused beam of this high-energy radiation. As the beam passes through your body, different tissues absorb different amounts:
- Bones and teeth: Very dense, absorb most radiation, appear white
- Soft tissues (muscle, fat, organs): Medium density, appear gray
- Air (lungs, intestines): Low density, appears black
- Metal implants: Extremely dense, appear bright white
The radiation that passes through your body hits a detector plate behind you, creating a shadow image. Modern digital X-ray systems use electronic sensors that convert this pattern into a computer image within seconds.
Diagnostic Accuracy by Condition
Research shows X-ray accuracy varies by what's being diagnosed:
- Pediatric pneumonia: Research shows chest X-rays correctly identify pneumonia in about 9 out of 10 children with the condition[Evidence: A][3]
- Bone infections: X-rays detect bone infections in about 7 out of 10 cases[Evidence: B][5]
- Critically ill patients: In ICU settings, chest X-ray sensitivity drops to about 5 out of 10 cases, but correctly rules out problems in about 9 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][11]
AI-Enhanced X-Ray Interpretation
Modern hospitals increasingly use artificial intelligence to assist radiologists in reading X-rays. When AI assistance is used:
- Wrist fractures: AI correctly identifies fractures in about 8 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][4]
- Pneumonia detection: Deep learning systems achieve over 95% accuracy[Evidence: A][6]
- Collapsed lung: AI detects pneumothorax in about 9 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][12]
- General fractures: Commercial AI products show good to excellent performance across most body regions[Evidence: A][13]
- Bone loss screening: Deep learning correctly identifies osteoporosis in about 8 out of 10 cases[Evidence: A][14]
Overall, studies show AI-assisted interpretation achieves 87-92% diagnostic accuracy across different types of X-ray imaging[Evidence: A][8].
🧪 What to Expect: The Real User Experience
During the Procedure
When you arrive for your X-ray, the radiology technologist will guide you through each step. You'll be asked to remove jewelry, watches, and any metal accessories from the area being imaged. Depending on the type of X-ray, you may need to change into a hospital gown.
The X-ray room is typically kept cool (65-68°F / 18-20°C) to maintain equipment function. The X-ray table surface feels cold and hard when you first make contact, as it's usually metal or hard plastic. Unlike an MRI, standard X-rays are performed in an open room with no enclosed spaces, so claustrophobia is not typically a concern.
The actual X-ray exposure lasts only 1-3 seconds. You won't feel anything during this time, as the radiation is completely imperceptible. The technologist will ask you to hold still and may instruct you to hold your breath briefly for chest X-rays. If multiple views are needed, you'll be repositioned between each image.
What You'll Feel After
There are no residual effects from standard X-ray radiation exposure. No lingering sensation, no fatigue, and no recovery time needed. You can resume all normal activities immediately after the procedure.
If your injured body part was manipulated during positioning, you might experience mild soreness afterward. Elderly patients or those with back pain may notice temporary stiffness from lying on the hard table if the procedure took more than 20 minutes. If contrast dye was used (for procedures like barium swallow), you may have a metallic taste for 15-30 minutes and rare mild nausea.
How to Make It Easier
- For the cold room: Ask the technologist for a blanket while waiting or between images
- For hard table discomfort: Ask if a thin pad or blanket can be placed under you
- For positioning pain: Tell the technologist about your injury. They can adjust positioning slowly and stop if pain is severe
- For anxiety: Ask the technologist to explain each step before it happens
- For children: Bring a comfort item like a stuffed animal that can be held if it's not in the X-ray field
- Before the procedure: Use the bathroom beforehand, as lying still is easier with an empty bladder
📊 How to Prepare for an X-Ray
Most X-rays require minimal preparation, but knowing what to expect helps the procedure go smoothly.
Standard X-Ray Preparation
| X-Ray Type | Preparation Needed | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chest X-ray | Remove jewelry, bra with underwire | 5-10 minutes | May need to hold breath briefly |
| Bone/Extremity X-ray | Remove jewelry near area | 10-15 minutes | Multiple angles often needed |
| Abdominal X-ray | May need to fast; remove belt | 10-15 minutes | Empty bladder recommended |
| Dental X-ray | Remove earrings, facial piercings | 5-15 minutes | Bite plates used for positioning |
| Barium study | Fast 8-12 hours; drink contrast | 30-60 minutes | Special prep instructions given |
What to Bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Doctor's referral or prescription (if required)
- List of current medications
- Previous imaging results if available
- Comfortable, loose clothing without metal
What to Tell Your Technologist
- If you are or might be pregnant
- If you have metal implants, pacemaker, or IUD
- If you have allergies (especially to contrast dye)
- If you've had recent X-rays at other facilities
- The specific location and nature of your symptoms
Clinical guidelines recommend X-rays when there is a documented clinical need for the examination[Evidence: D][10]. Your doctor has determined that the diagnostic benefit outweighs the minimal radiation exposure.
⚠️ Safety, Radiation Exposure, and Risks
The X-ray procedure itself is painless and quick. You may feel a brief pinch if an IV is placed for contrast studies, and positioning may feel uncomfortable if an injured area is involved. Most people tolerate X-rays very well.
It's normal to feel anxious about radiation exposure. Here's what the science shows about X-ray safety.
Understanding Radiation Dose
| Procedure | Radiation Dose | Equal to Natural Background |
|---|---|---|
| Dental X-ray | 0.005 mSv | About 1 day |
| Chest X-ray | 0.1 mSv | About 10 days |
| Abdominal X-ray | 0.7 mSv | About 3 months |
| Full spine X-ray | 1.5 mSv | About 6 months |
| CT scan (chest) | 7 mSv | About 2 years |
For comparison, everyone receives about 3 mSv of natural background radiation annually from cosmic rays, soil, and building materials. A single chest X-ray adds less than 4% to your annual natural exposure.
Cancer Risk Perspective
The cancer risk from a single X-ray is extremely low. Studies suggest less than 0.4% of cancers worldwide are linked to all medical imaging combined, and standard X-rays contribute a very small fraction of this. The diagnostic benefits of identifying fractures, pneumonia, or tumors typically far outweigh this minimal risk.
Special Populations
- Pregnant women: X-rays of arms, legs, head, or chest do not directly expose the fetus. Abdominal X-rays are avoided unless critical.
- Breastfeeding mothers: Standard X-rays do not affect breast milk. You can breastfeed immediately after.
- Children: Medical facilities use pediatric protocols with lower doses. X-rays are safe when clinically indicated.
- People with pacemakers: X-rays do not affect pacemakers. MRIs require special precautions, but X-rays are safe.
🥗 Practical Tips for Your X-Ray
Before Your Appointment
- Wear comfortable clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothes without metal zippers, buttons, or underwire bras. This may help you avoid changing into a gown.
- Plan for timing: Arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork. The procedure itself typically takes 10-15 minutes.
- Bring previous images: If you have X-rays from other facilities, bring them or have them sent electronically for comparison.
Understanding Your Results
After your X-ray, a radiologist (a doctor specializing in medical imaging) will analyze the images and send a report to your ordering physician. Results are typically available within 24-48 hours for non-urgent studies, or within hours for emergency cases.
Research shows that when radiologists are confident about their findings, diagnoses are accurate about 88% of the time. When findings are uncertain, additional testing may be recommended[Evidence: C][7].
When to Seek Additional Testing
X-rays are excellent for many conditions but have limitations. Your doctor may recommend additional imaging such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound if:
- X-ray results are inconclusive
- Soft tissue detail is needed
- Complex fractures require 3D imaging
- Cancer staging requires more detail
Clinical guidelines from the American College of Radiology provide evidence-based recommendations for when X-rays are appropriate[Evidence: D][9].
What to Look for When Choosing an X-Ray Provider
The quality of your X-ray and results interpretation depends on the facility and radiologist. Here's what to consider:
Facility Quality Markers
- ACR Accreditation: American College of Radiology accreditation ensures quality standards Why it matters: Facilities meet rigorous technical and safety requirements
- Board-certified radiologists: Images should be read by radiologists certified by the American Board of Radiology Why it matters: Ensures specialized training in image interpretation
- Digital equipment: Modern digital X-ray systems provide clearer images with lower radiation Why it matters: Better image quality and reduced radiation exposure
- Pediatric protocols: If imaging a child, confirm the facility uses age-appropriate radiation doses Why it matters: Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults
Questions to Ask Your Provider
- Is this facility ACR accredited?
- What is the expected turnaround time for results?
- Will a radiologist review my images, or just a technologist?
- What is the cost with my insurance? Without insurance?
- Do you use pediatric protocols for children?
Red Flags to Avoid
- No radiologist review: Images should be interpreted by a physician, not just taken by a technologist
- Outdated equipment: Analog (film-based) X-ray systems deliver higher radiation than digital
- No lead shielding offered: Reproductive organs and thyroid should be shielded when not being imaged
- Pressure to add unnecessary tests: Your doctor should determine which imaging is needed
Cost Considerations
X-ray costs vary significantly by facility type:
- Freestanding imaging centers: Typically $100-$300
- Hospital outpatient: Typically $200-$500
- Emergency room: Typically $300-$800
- With insurance: Copays typically $10-$50 depending on plan
How X-Ray Compares to CT and MRI: Which Imaging Test Do You Need?
X-ray, CT scan, and MRI are all valuable imaging tools, but they work differently and are best suited for different purposes. Your doctor chooses the imaging test based on what information is needed.
| Feature | X-Ray | CT Scan | MRI |
|---|---|---|---|
| How It Works | Single radiation beam creates 2D image | Multiple X-ray beams create 3D cross-sections | Magnetic fields and radio waves (no radiation) |
| Radiation | Very low (0.1 mSv chest) | Moderate (7 mSv chest) | None |
| Duration | 10-15 minutes | 10-30 minutes | 30-90 minutes |
| Cost (Typical Range) | $100-$400 | $300-$1,500 | $500-$3,000 |
| Best For | Bones, lungs, dental, foreign objects | Internal bleeding, complex fractures, tumors | Soft tissue, brain, spine, joints |
| Bone Infection Detection | 70.4% sensitivity[Evidence: B][5] | Higher than X-ray | 95.6% sensitivity[Evidence: B][5] |
| Pregnancy | Limited use, avoid abdomen | Generally avoided | Generally safe after first trimester |
| Claustrophobia Concern | None (open room) | Minimal (brief tunnel) | Common (enclosed for 30-90 min) |
When Each Test Is Used
- X-ray first: For suspected fractures, chest infections, dental problems, swallowed objects
- CT scan: When X-ray is inconclusive, for internal bleeding, detailed bone imaging, staging cancer
- MRI: For soft tissue injuries, brain/spine conditions, joint problems, when avoiding radiation is important
In cases of suspected bone infection, research shows X-ray correctly detects infection in about 7 out of 10 cases, while MRI detects about 95 out of 100 cases. However, X-ray remains the first-line imaging test due to lower cost, faster results, and wider availability[Evidence: B][5].
What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)
What Research Suggests
- Chest X-ray achieves 89.3% sensitivity and 90.6% specificity for diagnosing pneumonia in children, based on a meta-analysis of 30 studies involving 4,546 children[Evidence: A][3]
- AI-assisted X-ray interpretation achieves 87-92% diagnostic accuracy across different radiologic specialties[Evidence: A][8]
- Deep learning systems detect pneumonia with over 95% sensitivity[Evidence: A][6]
- For detecting pneumothorax (collapsed lung), AI achieves 87% sensitivity and 95% specificity based on 23 studies with 34,011 patients[Evidence: A][12]
- In critically ill ICU patients, chest X-ray sensitivity drops to 49% while maintaining 92% specificity[Evidence: A][11]
What's NOT Yet Proven
- Long-term cancer risk from cumulative low-dose radiation exposure requires continued epidemiological research
- AI-assisted interpretation metrics represent validation studies. Real-world clinical performance may vary across different facilities and populations
- Optimal frequency of routine chest X-rays for screening purposes has not been established in asymptomatic populations
- Diagnostic accuracy in specific populations (elderly, immunocompromised, obese patients) requires dedicated study
Where Caution Is Needed
- Diagnostic accuracy varies dramatically by clinical context: pediatric pneumonia achieves 89% sensitivity while ICU patients show only 49% sensitivity[Evidence: A][11]
- Radiologist confidence significantly impacts diagnostic accuracy. When uncertain, confirmed diagnosis drops from 88% to 28%[Evidence: C][7]
- X-ray may miss early-stage conditions that require CT or MRI for detection
- Some commercial AI fracture detection studies showed bias. Industry-funded studies reported higher accuracy than independent research[Evidence: A][13]
Should YOU Get an X-Ray?
Best suited for: People with suspected bone fractures, chest infections, dental problems, or swallowed objects. First-line imaging when symptoms suggest conditions X-ray can detect reliably.
Not recommended for: Routine screening without clinical indication. Pregnant women for abdominal imaging (unless critical). Situations requiring soft tissue detail that CT or MRI would provide.
Realistic expectations: Results typically available within 24-48 hours. Some findings may be inconclusive, requiring additional imaging. A normal X-ray does not always rule out all conditions.
When to consult a professional: Always get X-rays through a licensed medical facility with a doctor's order. Discuss results with your ordering physician, who can explain findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much radiation is in an X-ray compared to everyday exposure?
A chest X-ray delivers about 0.1 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation, which equals roughly 10 days of natural background radiation you receive from the sun, soil, and building materials. A dental X-ray is even lower at 0.005 mSv, equivalent to about 1 day of natural exposure. Americans receive an average of 3 mSv annually from natural sources alone. The radiation from a single X-ray is a very small addition to what your body already experiences every day.
How should I prepare for an X-ray?
Most X-rays require minimal preparation. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or underwire. Remove jewelry, watches, and metal accessories from the area being imaged. For abdominal X-rays, you may be asked to avoid eating for several hours. For contrast studies (like barium swallow), specific fasting instructions will be provided. Always inform the technologist if you are or might be pregnant, have metal implants, or have allergies to contrast dye.
What happens if I move during an X-ray?
Movement during an X-ray can blur the image, making it harder for doctors to see important details. If the image is too blurry to interpret, you may need to repeat the X-ray, which means additional (though still minimal) radiation exposure. The technologist will instruct you when to hold still and when to hold your breath. Holding still for the 1-3 seconds of actual exposure is usually straightforward for most patients.
Are dental X-rays safe to get regularly?
Dental X-rays are among the lowest-radiation imaging procedures available. A single dental X-ray delivers about 0.005 mSv, equivalent to less than one day of natural background radiation. The American Dental Association recommends X-rays based on individual risk factors, not a fixed schedule. For healthy adults with no dental problems, X-rays every 2-3 years may be sufficient. Children and those with dental issues may need them more frequently. Modern digital dental X-rays use even lower radiation than traditional film.
Can X-rays detect cancer?
X-rays can detect some cancers, but their ability varies by cancer type and location. Chest X-rays can reveal lung tumors, though small or early-stage cancers may not be visible. Mammograms (specialized breast X-rays) are standard screening tools for breast cancer. Bone cancers and metastases often appear on X-rays. However, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans are generally more sensitive for cancer detection and staging. If cancer is suspected, your doctor will recommend the most appropriate imaging based on your symptoms.
Are X-rays safe for children?
X-rays are considered safe for children when medically necessary. Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults, so pediatric facilities use specially adjusted protocols that reduce radiation dose while maintaining image quality. Research shows chest X-rays correctly identify pneumonia in about 9 out of 10 children. The diagnostic benefit of identifying conditions like fractures, pneumonia, or swallowed objects typically outweighs the minimal radiation risk.
How often can I safely get X-rays?
There is no specific limit on how many X-rays you can receive, but the goal is always to minimize cumulative radiation exposure. Each X-ray should be medically justified, meaning the diagnostic benefit outweighs the small radiation risk. If you've had recent X-rays at other facilities, bring those images or have them transferred to avoid unnecessary repeat imaging. Discuss any concerns about frequent imaging with your doctor, who can help determine if alternative tests might be appropriate.
Why might a radiologist be uncertain about X-ray findings?
X-ray interpretation involves analyzing shadows and patterns that can sometimes be ambiguous. Research shows that when radiologists are confident about findings, diagnoses are confirmed about 88% of the time. When radiologists express uncertainty, the diagnosis is confirmed in fewer than 30% of cases. Uncertainty doesn't mean something is wrong. It means additional testing (like CT or MRI) may help clarify the findings. This honest communication helps ensure accurate diagnosis.
Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles
At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:
- [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
- [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
- [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
- [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline
Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
References
- 1 . The yield of chest X-ray or ultra-low-dose chest-CT in emergency department patients suspected of pulmonary infection without respiratory symptoms or signs, European radiology, 2023, van den Berk IAH et al. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 2 . Diagnostic Accuracy of Chest x-Ray and Ultrasonography in Detection of Community Acquired Pneumonia; a Brief Report, Emergency (Tehran, Iran), 2015, Taghizadieh A et al. PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 3 . Systematic review and meta-analysis of the accuracy of lung ultrasound and chest radiography in diagnosing community acquired pneumonia in children, Pediatric pulmonology, 2024, Shi C et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 4 . Artificial intelligence for X-ray scaphoid fracture detection: a systematic review and diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis, European radiology, 2024, Kraus M et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 5 . Diagnostic performance comparison of conventional radiography to magnetic resonance imaging for suspected osteomyelitis of the extremities: a multi-reader study, European radiology, 2023, Gowda P et al. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 6 . Accuracy of deep learning for automated detection of pneumonia using chest X-Ray images: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Computers in biology and medicine, 2020, Li Y et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 7 . The Clinical Utility of Chest Radiography for Identifying Pneumonia: Accounting for Diagnostic Uncertainty in Radiology Reports, AJR American journal of roentgenology, 2019, Makhnevich A et al. PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 8 . Diagnostic accuracy of deep learning in medical imaging: a systematic review and meta-analysis, NPJ digital medicine, 2021, Aggarwal R et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 9 . ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Routine Chest Radiography, Journal of thoracic imaging, 2016, Expert Panel on Thoracic Imaging. PubMed [Evidence: D]
- 10 . ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Routine Chest Imaging, Journal of the American College of Radiology, 2023, Expert Panel on Thoracic Imaging. PubMed [Evidence: D]
- 11 . Diagnostic Accuracy of Chest Radiograph, and When Concomitantly Studied Lung Ultrasound, in Critically Ill Patients With Respiratory Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Critical care medicine, 2018, Winkler MH et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 12 . Deep Learning for Pneumothorax Detection on Chest Radiograph: A Diagnostic Test Accuracy Systematic Review and Meta Analysis, Canadian Association of Radiologists journal, 2024, Katzman BD et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 13 . Artificial intelligence in commercial fracture detection products: a systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy, Scientific reports, 2024, Husarek J et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 14 . Diagnostic Accuracy of Deep Learning for the Prediction of Osteoporosis Using Plain X-rays: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland), 2024, Yen TY et al. PubMed [Evidence: A]
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.
Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
