The Most Common Seasonal Allergies in Albuquerque

Common allergy symptoms in Albuquerque

Allergies may be difficult to identify, since they often feel like a cold or even the flu. Common symptoms include:

●       Runny nose or nasal congestion

●       Sneezing

●       Scratchy throat

●       Fatigue or difficulty sleeping

●       Dark circles under the eyes

●       Coughing or wheezing

Symptoms that are more likely to indicate allergies include:

●       Itchy, stinging, or watery eyes

●       Hives or rash where your skin encountered an allergen

●       Dry, scaly skin

●       Symptoms that change with your environment

If you’re having trouble figuring out whether you’re suffering from a cold or allergies, take our allergy symptoms quiz here.

What are the most common allergies in Albuquerque?

In Albuquerque the summers are hot, the winters are short and very cold, and it’s mostly dry and clear year-round. With such large fluctuations in temperature, allergy and sinus sufferers can most definitely feel the effects of those seasonal changes.

Having four distinct seasons means that different outdoor allergens peak at different times of the year. Understanding your specific triggers and when they are strongest can help you better plan outdoor activities and reduce symptoms.

Tree Allergies

Most trees rely on the wind to carry their pollen and fertilize other plants. Albuquerque’s dry, breezy weather is perfect for spreading pollen--and the allergy symptoms that often go with it. Did you know that pollen can be blown for up to two miles on windy days? Trees in Albuquerque pollinate from late winter throughout the spring.

The most common allergenic trees in Albuquerque are:

Juniper trees are considered the worst of the tree allergies in Albuquerque. These evergreen, coniferous trees grow abundantly in the region. Junipers may also grow small enough to look more like bushes. Juniper can begin releasing pollen as early as December and peaking in March or April.

Elm trees can be found throughout the United States, usually near rivers and other damp areas. Like other allergenic plants, elms produce pollen through their flowers and fruit. Elm trees can start releasing pollen in January and peak in March or April.

Cottonwood and Ash trees are what some refer to as spring’s worst enemy, as these trees are very popular in all of New Mexico and pollinate most of the spring and summer.

Other Plant Allergies in Albuquerque

Trees are not the only source of allergens for Albuquerque visitors and residents; other types of plants produce pollen that can aggravate allergies.

Ragweed and other weed pollen can aggravate allergies in the summer and early fall, peaking in August.

Sagebrush is a common allergen that can make autumn miserable for allergic individuals in dry or mountainous regions. August and September are usually the worst allergy months for these plants in Albuquerque, although their season can last from early July through the end of October.

Grasses also pollinate in summer throughout the fall and cause major problems for those living or visiting Albuquerque. Grass pollen can also last through the end of October due to the mild fall.

Tips to control your allergies in Albuquerque

●       Find a pollen app you like and start tracking the pollen count

●       Change your indoor air filters every season

●       Keep doors and windows closed during high pollen counts

●       Remove shoes when coming inside your home and change your clothes immediately

●       Wash your hair at night to avoid bringing pollen into the bed at night

●       Indoor-outdoor pets should be bathed or wiped down at least once a week

●       Backpacks, purses, and other bags that are carried around outside should be left in home entryways, and never brought into the bedroom

●       Wash rugs, curtains, and bedding regularly during allergy season

●       If you are allergic to any trees on your property, keep branches trimmed to reduce pollen production

Allergies shouldn’t have to keep you from enjoying the beauty and climate of Albuquerque! At Aspire Allergy & Sinus, our specialists are trained and experienced in testing, diagnosing, and treating outdoor allergies. Our Albuquerque clinic is located right off of Highway 423 and I-25, servicing the areas of Sun North Estate and Pleasant View. Our Albuquerque team includes, Dr. Richard Wachs, allergist, Morgan DelVecchio, PA-C, and Joseph L. Gill, FNP. Stop depending on short-term, over-the-counter solutions, book your appointment online today! 

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