As spring approaches in the DMV area, many of us look forward to warmer weather; but for millions, it also marks the start of seasonal allergies.

An allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance as if it were dangerous. These reactions can range from mild symptoms like watery eyes to severe, life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis. In fact, over 106 million people (about 1 in 3 individuals) in the U.S. experience allergies each year. Several conditions fall under the umbrella of allergies, including allergic rhinitis (sometimes called “hay fever”), food allergies, anaphylaxis, allergic skin conditions, and allergic asthma. The most common food allergies are peanut, milk, shellfish, and tree nuts.