Cat allergies

[MyTurn2Raise]

Ok...I used to be slightly allergic to cats in high school. Back then, if I petted cats and then brushed my hand by my eyes, they would dry out and become very irritated. My allergy has progressed considerably in the last decade. I become short of breath and feel like my lungs are collapsing. My eyes are irritated just in the presence of cat hair. My skin gets rashes.

It really sucks and I cannot go over to numerous friends places anymore. I've tried taking some OTC allergy medicines when I know I'll be in the presence of cats, but no dice there.

Is there something I can do?

My health care situation is that, since I'm self-employed, cheap, and a moderately fit 26 year old, I only have major medical insurance.