Submit your question for Dr. Mary Mason

Dr. Mary Mason wants to hear from you. She's answers your health questions every Wednesday on News 4 at Noon. This week, she's answering questions on food allergies.

What is a food allergy?

 A food allergy happens when the  immune system incorrectly thinks a food protein is dangerous and tries to protect the body a 

by releasing chemicals into the blood. The release  of these chemicals results in  an allergic reaction -  a tingling sensation, itching, or a metallic taste in the

mouth. Hives, wheezing or swelling of the mouth and throat area can also occur. These symptoms may begin anywhere from several

minutes to two hours after exposure to the allergen, but life-threatening reactions may get worse over a period of several hours.

How many Americans have food allergies?

About 1 in 25 people have food allergies and they are on the rise.  Scientist estimate that food allergies have doubled over the last 10 years.  

Most common food allergies include seafood and peanuts or tree nuts.  

Food allergies are also common in school-age children - but many of these children will out grown their food allergies.

 Why are food allergies increasing?

Scientists don’t know, but they’re trying to find out. Some think it is  because children in our

culture are exposed to fewer germs than our bodies are used to dealing with, the immune system,

deprived of its customary full-time germ-fighting job, misidentifies certai n foods as harmful.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death. It can be

caused not only by food, but also by such things as bee stings, drugs, and latex. In the U.S., food

allergy is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting and is responsible for an

estimated 150 to 200 deaths and 30,000 emergency room visits annually.  Studies have shown

that early administration of epinephrine (adrenaline) is crucial to successfully treating anaphylactic

reactions. Epinephrine is available by prescription in a self-injectable device such as a EpiPen.

Is there a cure?

There is presently no known cure for food allergy. Strict avoidance of the food allergen is the only

way to prevent a reaction.  All food allergies must be taken seriously.  The severity of a person's allergic reaction can not be 

predicted.  They can have a serious, life threatening reaction even if they have only had mild reactions in the past.

About Dr. Mary Mason:

Dr. Mason is board certified in Internal Medicine and is the Assistant Clinical Professor at Washington University School of Medicine. She went to medical school at Washington University, and did her Internal Medicine Residency and
was Chief Resident for Internal Medicine at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.  Dr. Mason teaches in the internal medicine residency clinic.