Lidocaine Allergy

Does anyone have, or know someone, who has an allergy to lidocaine/novocaine - the anaesthetics that are normally used for pretty much everything. How does the NHS handle this?

In the US, I only needed anaesthesia once, for minor dental work, and my allergist wrote up a prescription for a substitute which was made by combining two different anaesthetics.  The dentist had to order it about a week in advance, and it was kept in the fridge in the dentist's office until I came in.

What would happen with the NHS?  I'm worried about what might happen if I ever need surgery.

just tell them you have an allergy, they usually/should follow that up with questions about the severity of your reaction.
they use allergy bands here in the uk also, they go on your wrist with your name band.

Just be sure to tell them.  I remember the first time I saw a dentist here, he specifically asked me if I had ever had an allergic/adverse reaction to lidocaine, so I would assume they have an alternative for those that are allergic.

if you don't mind me asking... what was your allergic reaction like?

When I've had novocaine, my face swells up and I get incredibly itchy, like I literally want to rip the skin off my face.

If I use a topical substance with a related anesthetic, I get a rash.

I've never had surgery in my life.

PMd you.

This thread made me think of the allergies to medicines that I have. Does anyone know a site to translate the US and UK names for meds?

My mother has allergies to "bain" and "cain" drugs.  Anything that ends in these words, she is allergic to.

There are alternatives to it.  Just tell your doctor. It should be marked on your records.

Never had to deal with that in the UK, but I know in the US there are alternatives.

~BEG