Note that over-the-counter antihistamines can be dangerous to take when involved in activities requiring quick reaction time and coordination such as required by certain occupations or while driving. Decreased reaction time can occur even in individuals who do not feel drowsy. 

While itching, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, etc., certainly are annoying, allergic symptoms can be debilitating and even life-threatening. Skin testing and an allergy evaluation allows for treatment which, in most cases, prevents allergies from becoming a debilitating illness. 

Anaphylaxis, which involves symptoms including low blood pressure and fainting, is a life-threatening allergic reaction. Individuals can be so allergic to an insect sting, medication, food, or inhalant that life-threatening reactions occur. 

Asthmatic individuals may develop severe symptoms during any one episode and chronically uncontrolled asthma puts one at increased risk for life-threatening symptoms. North Carolina had 138 residents die from asthma in 2001.