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Warning-sign checks

MSG symptom complex: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for:

    • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or throat tightness
    • Swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth, or throat
    • Fainting, collapse, severe confusion, or inability to wake normally
    • Severe or ongoing chest pain
    • Sudden weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or a sudden extreme headache

    These are not typical features of mild MSG symptom complex.

    They may indicate an allergic reaction, heart problem, stroke, or another emergency.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical advice for persistent vomiting, severe or unusual headache, ongoing palpitations, or chest discomfort that quickly settles but has not been assessed before.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if:

    • Symptoms repeatedly follow meals
    • Headaches, flushing, nausea, or palpitations are frequent
    • You are avoiding many foods or losing weight without intending to
    • Symptoms are changing, lasting longer, or interfering with daily life
    • You need help working out whether MSG or another ingredient is involved

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on MSG symptom complex. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.