How to Identify MSG Poisoning

Headaches are symptoms of MSG poisoning

MSG, short for monosodium glutamate, is often added to particular foods to increase the flavor. While it is most often used in Chinese food, it is used in a wide array of other cuisines. Some people are allergic to MSG and consuming it results in uncomfortable physical reactions, commonly known as MSG poisoning.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Ibuprofen

Instructions

1. Analyze your symptoms. MSG poisoning carries with it a variety of symptoms including intense headaches, dizziness, and jaw, throat and back tightness. You may also feel tingly sensations all over your body if you have MSG poisoning.

2. Observe your breathing. If you have asthma, it can be worsened with MSG poisoning.

3. Consider what you have eaten in the past 24 hours. If you have eaten Chinese food, there is a good chance you have MSG poisoning.

4. Contact the restaurants in which you have recently eaten and ask them if they use MSG to flavor their food. In the future, eat at restaurants that advertise they do not use MSG.

5. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. While there is no cure for MSG poisoning, your doctor may be able to treat your symptoms. If you have difficulty breathing or chest tightness, you should see your doctor immediately.

6. Drink lots of water if you have MSG poisoning. This will help to flush the MSG from your body.

7. Take ibuprofen if necessary for the pain.

Tips & Warnings

• When recovering from MSG poisoning, make sure to get plenty of sleep. Your body will recover best when you are well rested.