I'm getting a chest x-ray and i've been smoking cigarettes for a little over thirty years. what will it show?

Chest x-ray: If you are screening for lung cancer, chest x- rays do not find possible tumors soon enough. Ask for a screening ct of the chest, also called a spiral ct. Discuss insurance coverage before you get the test- some insurances don't cover the cost of ct for screening, but cover follow- up ct if a lesion is found.

Dirty lungs?: Usually smoking appears on chest radiograph as prominent central markings which can also be seen in viral infection, reactive airway disease, and inhaling polutants.Interstitial markings or small lines throughout lungs more prominent.

Can't predict: the outcome before the test. Long term smokers often show signs of emphysema/COPD on a chest X-ray. You are also at increased risk for lung cancer.