"Outrageous experience and extremely long..."

I had an allergic reaction from a hair dye resulting in a very swollen face and puffy eyes that went on for days. The only symptom that kept me away from being classified as a life-threatening case was any breathing difficulties. I was first assessed and referred by NHS Direct who told me to go directly to the UCC, but the UCC receptionist told me that I have to register first at the A&E reception - quite misleading info. After waiting for 2 hours to get referred by the A&E reception and to be seen by a nurse there I headed back to the UCC where there was already a 2 hour delay in processing the appointments. Waited for another 5 hours to be seen again by a nurse, because there was no doctor on shift to see me. All I needed was a prescription for some steroids to help me with my balloon like face, but the nurse of course is not allowed to prescribe any drugs. All this 7 hour wait was to see 2 nurses and no doctor!! Absolutely outrageous! I'v been to other A&Es and yes, I am aware of the NHS reality, but this exceeded all my expectations and patience. Never there again (hopefully)!