Radiology - Skin Care after your X-ray Procedure

The examination that you have had today involves the use of x- rays. Page 6 of this leaflet has an x-ray dose on it. Please bring this leaflet to any further x-ray appointments.

Why do I have this leaflet?

Long procedures using x-rays can sometimes cause skin reactions. These are caused by repeated doses of x-rays passing through an area of skin. Skin reactions can be worse if you have more than one treatment in the same area and will occur over the area you have had treatment.

Skin reactions can vary. You may experience the skin turning light pink or brown. Some patients may receive skin reactions that look red (like sunburn).

The skin can sometimes become tender to touch, or dry and itchy. This is because the oils in your skin can stop being produced as normal for a short time after prolonged exposure to x-rays.

The x-rays used can also cause hair loss. This will normally be a small patch where the x-rays have been used. This will mostly grow back, but some patients who have had complex examinations may be left with some hair that does not grow back.

Will it happen to me?

Some patients do not get any skin reactions. Some patients may have other factors that can increase the chances of a reaction:

• If you are elderly (over 70 years) and/or have 'thin skin' or take medicines that can damage your skin (like chemotherapy or long term steroids), you may be more likely to have a reaction
• Other health issues such as diabetes, kidney disease or lupus may cause people to have more of a skin reaction

What should I do?

If you have any skin affected you can try some of the below ideas:

• Avoid creams and lotions with perfume or alcohol in them. You can use a cream with no perfume. Your local pharmacist will be able to help you find one
• If on your head, use a mild shampoo (baby shampoo), do not dye/perm your hair until the skin has settled. It is advisable to do a patch test before colouring/perming your hair, even if you have previously had no reaction
• Avoid hot and cold places; this includes very hot showers or baths
• Avoid direct sunlight, this includes tanning beds
• Avoid tight clothing that could cover the skin and make it itch
• Try not to cover the skin with plasters or dressings. When removing them it can irritate the skin and make it sore
• Drink plenty of water, eat healthy foods and get lots of rest

What should I know about treating my skin?

Gently wash your skin with warm water or with mild soap (baby soap). When drying your skin pat it dry with a towel or let it air dry.

If you use a cream or lotion (ask your pharmacist) this will likely make your skin feel more comfortable. The cream or lotion will not heal your skin, but it can make it feel more normal.

Will you contact me?

For some patients who have had long treatments using x-rays, someone from the hospital may call you after 2 to 3 weeks to check how your skin is. This is a routine follow-up phone call, and you can ask questions about your skin and hair if needed.

When should I contact the hospital?

If your skin becomes very hot, itchy, sore or starts weeping, then please contact us on the relevant number below for advice.

In the rare event your skin becomes cracked or bleeds, the doctor may want you to have some special medicated cream.  This would help the skin heal and will be soothing.

We would also like to hear from you if you lose any hair, this is not an emergency but helps to keep us up to date.

For any advice please call us on:

Salford Royal Hospital patients:

Tel: 0161 206 2131
Charlotte.Smith@nca.nhs.uk

Oldham Royal Hospital patients:

Tel: 0161 778 5314/5414
Vickie.spencer@nca.nhs.uk or Nicola.curran@nca.nhs.uk