Ask Doctor Chris: Nut allergies and sciatica

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Every week we partner up with our sister magazine, Woman, to bring you expert health advice from This Morning's Dr Chris Steele MBE, health journalist of the year. This week he answers your questions about nut allergies and sciatica.

The problem: 'Is he allergic to nuts?'

I fed my 18-month-old son peanut butter for the first time last week and he started vomiting shortly afterwards. How can I tell if he's got an allergy?

The solution

For the time being, avoid all products containing nuts, especially if there's anyone else in your family with a history of nut allergies, plus asthma, eczema or hayfever. Ask your GP to get your son tested by an allergist at your local hospital. Any nut allergy can be life-threatening, so be wary of everything he eats until he gets tested.

The problem: 'My fitness plan has backfired'

I've been going to the gym regularly in a bid to get back in shape for spring, but now I find I'm getting shooting pains down my back and leg whenever I run. What should I do?

The solution

See your doctor. This sounds like sciatica, which is usually caused by the disc of gristle between your lower vertebrae (which acts like a shock absorber) pressing on the main sciatic nerve that supplies your leg. Keep away from any strenuous exercise that involves bending, especially with weights.