Chinese restaurant syndrome - Treatment

Alternative Names

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

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the symptoms. Most, such as headache or flushing, need no treatment.

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

Chest pain
Heart palpitations
Shortness of breath
Swelling of the throat

Expectations (prognosis):

Most people recover from mild cases of Chinese restaurant syndrome without treatment and with no lasting problems.

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.

Calling your health care provider:

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.

Allergic reactions

Reviewed last on: 10/28/2010
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Bush RK, Taylor SL. Adverse reactions to food and drug additives. In: Adkinson NF Jr, ed. Middleton’s Allergy: Principles and Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 66.

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