Why Spring is So Tough For Seasonal Allergy Sufferers in Colorado

Dear Seasonal Allergy Sufferers in Colorado,

No, it’s not just you!

As much as we love living in this beautiful state, the seasonal transitions can be tough to weather if you find yourself constantly dealing with the uninvited symptoms of sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, sinus pressure, post-nasal drip, and coughing.

Seasonal allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to certain environmental triggers that appear during specific times of the year. When you factor in Colorado’s elevation and dry, windy climate to the mix, it’s a perfect recipe for some highly unpleasant symptoms to be experienced this time of year.

Why spring is so tough for seasonal allergy sufferers in Colorado

In Colorado, spring seasonal allergies are primarily caused by:

1. Tree pollen – The most significant spring allergen in Colorado, with peak levels typically from March through June. The main culprits – there’s quite a few of them – include:
   • Cottonwood trees
   • Elm trees
   • Cedar/Juniper trees
   • Pine trees
   • Aspen trees
   • Oak trees
2. Grass pollen – Like a one-two punch, grass pollen begins to emerge in late spring (May-June) as tree pollen diminishes, with:
   • Kentucky bluegrass
   • Fescue
   • Timothy grass
   • Orchard grass
3. Mountain flora – Colorado’s varied elevations mean different plants pollinate at different times, extending the allergy season (good times!)
4. Dry, windy conditions – Colorado’s climate is particularly conducive to pollen spread:
   • Low humidity allows pollen to remain airborne longer
   • Frequent winds carry pollen greater distances
   • Lack of rain means less pollen gets washed from the air
5. Rapid temperature changes – Colorado’s spring weather fluctuations can trigger sudden pollen releases.
6. Mold spores – During spring snowmelt and rain, outdoor mold can increase in damp areas.

Colorado’s unique geography creates “microclimate zones” where allergen types and concentrations can vary significantly between areas just miles apart, making the allergen landscape particularly complex.

Holistic relief for Colorado seasonal allergy sufferers

I’ve worked with many, many rockin’ cases of seasonal allergies over the years. There are a number of traditional as well as research-backed, holistic approaches that can help bring relief:

1. Acupuncture – We can start to calm down the immune system right at the first acupuncture treatment, diminishing the severity of symptoms. Cupping, moxibustion, and auricular acupuncture are potent tools for this.
2. Herbal medicine – Customized herbal medicine in the form of teas, granules, or pills can expedite the healing process.
3. Stay well-hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus secretions and supports overall immune function.
4. Increase quercetin-rich foods – Quercetin is a natural antihistamine found in onions, apples, berries, broccoli, citrus fruits, and green tea. It can also be taken in supplement form – some studies suggest it may help reduce inflammation and allergy symptoms.
5. Vitamin D supplementation – Some research links vitamin D deficiency to increased allergy severity, suggesting supplementation might help in deficient individuals.
6. Spirulina – A blue-green algae supplement that has shown some anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects in limited studies.
7. Consuming local honey – Consuming local honey may help build tolerance to local pollens.
8. Probiotics – Certain strains may help modulate immune response and reduce allergy symptoms in some people.
9. Following an anti-inflammatory diet – Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts) while reducing omega-6 fatty acids (processed foods, vegetable oils). This can help decrease inflammation associated with allergic responses.
10. Foods to potentially avoid/decrease during allergy season – Alcohol (can worsen inflammation and dehydration), dairy (may increase mucus production in some people), highly processed foods (can increase inflammation).

Don’t let allergies control your spring

Are itchy eyes, constant sneezing, and congestion making you miserable this allergy season?

Acupuncture offers natural relief from seasonal allergy symptoms without the drowsiness of over-the-counter medications.

Research shows that targeted acupuncture treatments can:

• Reduce inflammation in nasal passages
• Decrease histamine production
• Boost your immune system’s resilience
• Provide lasting symptom relief

Kailey Brennan L.Ac. specializes in personalized treatment plans that address your specific allergy symptoms and triggers.

Book your acupuncture consultation today and breathe easier tomorrow.

Call (720) 457-4458 or click here to schedule your appointment.