Help me: Do I have asthma

[theben]

I'm desparate for some medical advice, so please help me OOT.

Background:

I've never had breathing problems until this spring. It seems allergy season has been awful. Aside from congestion, I've frequent had some terrible shortness of breath. My chest has felt very "tight" and i've felt like i can't take a full breath. Its very annoying and makes me feel terrible. Is it possible for allergens to induce this in somebody who has never had asthma for his entire life?

If this seems to be allergen induced asthma, what are acceptable treatments? I am aware there exists over-the-counter inhalers (epinephrine). How effective (if at all) is this stuff and what are the risks and side effects? Does anybody use these things and how often would you say you use them?

Thanks in advance.