I was asked this question in viva in my final year medicine exam.



Alternative Names

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

Definition
Chinese restaurant syndrome is a collection of symptoms that some people experience after eating Chinese food. A food additive called monosodium glutamate (MSG) has been implicated, but it has not been proved to be the substance that causes this condition.

Causes

In 1968, reports of a series of reactions to Chinese food were first described. MSG was reported to cause these symptoms, but subsequent research produced conflicting data. Many studies were performed, but a majority failed to show a connection between MSG and the symptoms that some people describe after eating Chinese food. For this reason, MSG continues to be used in some meals. However, it is possible that some people are particularly sensitive to food additives, and MSG is chemically similar to one of the brain's most important neurotransmitters, glutamate.

Symptoms

Chest pain
Flushing
Headache
Numbness or burning in or around the mouth
Sense of facial pressure or swelling
Sweating

Exams and Tests

Chinese restaurant syndrome is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms. The health care provider may ask the following questions as well:

Have you eaten Chinese food within the past 2 hours?
Have you eaten any other food that may contain monosodium glutamate within the past 2 hours?
The following signs may also be used to aid in diagnosis:


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:

Outlook (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.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

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.

References
Bush RK, Taylor SL, Hefle SL. Adverse reactions to food and drug additives. In: Adkinson NF Jr., Yunginger JW, Busse WW, Bochner BS, Holgate ST, eds. Middleton's Allergy: Principles and Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa; Mosby Elsevier; 2003: chap 90.

Lawrence DT. Dobmeier SG, Bechtel LK, Holstege CP. Food Poisoning. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2007:357-373.

Diseases and Conditions Encyclopedia : Discovery Health
MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Chinese restaurant syndrome

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haha ,good article ,hope u knew da answer at dat time lol

That's so true!

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Its commonly know that monosodium glutamate may "ignite" allergic reactions in some people, for this reason there are different health concerns on its usage, but there is a lot of controversy around this topic. I did not know that this kind of reaction was named "Chinese restaurant syndrome", it really sounds like a joke. Well I'm happy that have never had any reaction after eating Chinese food.

oops! i need to avoid msg from now..

Wonder why your prof uses it for viva ... I live in Singapore (70% Chinese) and I don't think any prof dares to mention this very controversial 'syndrome' ;-)

Thanx for info