Chinese restaurant syndrome

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Allergic reactions

Hot dog headache; Glutamate-induced asthma; MSG (monosodium glutamate) syndrome

Treatment will depend upon the symptoms. Most -- such as headache or flushing -- need no treatment.

Life-threatening symptoms may be similar to any other severe allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention. These include the following:

• Swelling of the throat
• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath

Most people recover from mild cases of Chinese restaurant syndrome on their own. Their prognosis is excellent.

People who have experienced life-threatening reactions need to be extremely cautious about what they eat and should always carry medication prescribed by their doctor for emergency treatment.

If you experience any symptoms such as shortness of breath, heart palpitations, chest pain, or swelling of the lips or throat, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Review Date: 10/26/2006
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.