Chinese restaurant syndrome is a syndrome whose symptoms appear after consuming food with monosodium glutamate. Know its causes and the medical treatment to follow.
It was in 1968 when originally, and for the first time, a series of reports were published in which information was collected on different serious reactions that appeared after the consumption of Chinese food.
At that time, these symptoms were related to monosodium glutamate (or E-621), a food additive that in Chinese food is mainly used as a flavoring
However, many scientific studies have not been able to demonstrate a connection between MSG and the symptoms that some people describe after consuming Chinese food. Hence the use of this additive in some foods has not been prohibited.
Despite this, it is possible that some people are sensitive to food additives, and this time particularly to MSG (monosodium glutamate).
Symptoms of Chinese restaurant syndrome
Most people who have suffered from this syndrome have described some of the following symptoms:
- Redness of the skin
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Burning in the mouth or numbness
- Sensation of facial pressure or swelling
- Excessive sweating
Diagnosis of Chinese restaurant syndrome
As a general rule, this syndrome is diagnosed mainly based on the symptoms suffered by the person. In fact, the doctor usually asks you if you have consumed Chinese food in the last hours, or if you have consumed any other food that contains monosodium glutamate in the last two hours.
Other signs may also be noted in addition to the symptoms described above:
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Fast heart rate
- Decreased entry of air into the lungs.
Chinese restaurant syndrome treatment
The medical treatment to be followed depends directly on the symptoms, although it is true that –the vast majority- it is not necessary to follow any type of medical treatment.
However, life-threatening symptoms, which can be similar to any other severe allergic reaction, do need immediate medical attention.
