What's the difference between an MRI, CT scan, X-ray, ultrasound, EKG, and EEG? And why did your doctor order one instead of another?
In this episode of Health Recoded, we explain the science behind medical imaging and diagnostic testing so you can better understand why different tests are used and what they're looking for.
Many people are surprised to learn that each imaging test has a specific purpose. An MRI can't always replace a CT scan, an X-ray won't show everything, and an ultrasound is often the best option depending on what's happening inside the body.
Whether you're preparing for an upcoming test, trying to understand your diagnosis, or simply curious about how these technologies work, this episode breaks down the differences in a simple, evidence-based way.
You'll learn:
If you've ever searched:
...this episode is for you.
Subscribe to Health Recoded for evidence-based health education that helps you better understand your body, prevent disease, and make informed health decisions.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:43 How Does an X-Ray Work?
03:58 When Do You Need a CT Scan?
06:40 What to Know Before an MRI
10:53 What Is an Ultrasound Used For?
12:40 How Does an EKG Work?
15:40 What Does an EEG Measure?
17:48 Why Does Medical Imaging Take So Long?
19:03 How to Prepare for a Medical Scan
22:10 Key Takeaways
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for guidance provided by your own medical professional.
Resources:
American College of Radiology. (2024). RadiologyInfo.org. https://www.radiologyinfo.org
American Heart Association. (2024). Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). https://www.heart.org
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri
Mayo Clinic. (2024). CT scan. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ct-scan/about/pac-20393675
Mayo Clinic. (2024). MRI. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mri/about/pac-20384768
Mayo Clinic. (2024). Ultrasound. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound/about/pac-20395177
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering. (2023). Medical imaging.https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/medical-imaging
Radiological Society of North America & American College of Radiology. (2024). RadiologyInfo.org: X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. https://www.radiologyinfo.org
