There are side effects and risks to fluorescein angiography. After fluorescein dye is injected into your arm, your skin will turn a yellowish color for several hours. In addition, fluorescein is removed from the body by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. It turns the urine dark orange or yellow for about 24 hours.
Approximately 5% of patients who undergo fluorescein angiography experience the acute onset of nausea. This side effect occurs roughly 30–60 seconds into the test and usually passes quickly. An even smaller percentage of patients will actually experience vomiting. Again, this typically passes quickly.
Allergic reactions to fluorescein dye are uncommon but do occur. Symptoms may include itching, a skin rash, or a funny sensation in the throat. More serious allergic reactions are rare but have been reported, including breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and, in extremely rare cases, death. The risk of a severe allergic reaction associated with fluorescein dye is roughly 1 in 250,000.
Nick’s comment: I have had many fluorescein angiograms with no side effects.