| chinese restaurant syndrome | <syndrome> An acute hypersensitivity reaction to monosodium glutamate, a preservative common in Chinese food. This is characterised by a sudden onset of headache, heartburn, palpitations, sweating, swelling and flushing of the face. Some report a sense of increased facial pressure or tingling in the face. Symptoms generally start within 2 hours of eating foods rich in monosodium glutamate. This condition is generally self-limited and will resolve. Antihistamines can be helpful in some cases. (05 Jan 1998) |
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