Going lower is at least worth a try.

I live in Seattle too when I was first riding I was on 83 for a while, went to 71 after a few months from a suggestion from a friend, and found that to be a lot less taxing on the hills. Do you know anyone running lower or that has a cog you could try out?

Some of its building the strength/endurance climbing, but you may benefit from a bit smaller as well.