It literally burns to breathe in my home

[Nichole Dillabough]

I just recently moved into the historic district of Colorado Springs, and it's so great! I love the character of the area. However, recently whenever I am home, my allergies are making life miserable. Since it is an older home, I am afraid of what is lurking in the furnace/vents/walls. It literally burns my throat to breathe when I'm in the house. I've lost my voice twice already, and have spent a lot of money on nasal spray and antihistamines to no avail.
What are my rights, as a renter, to have my landlord have something done about this? He is a first time landlord, and I am afraid he will turn me down since it will probably cost a lot to have done. I would just like to have some backing when I walk in to this conversation.

Thanks so much in advance,
-N

[Ben Reese]

You seem to assume that this is a result of something your landlord is responsible for (and it may well be), but it is curious your room mates have no similar complaints. If they aren't showing symptoms, it may be just as reasonable to assume the problem is something they are bringing into the environment. (Perfume, smoke, etc).

But I'd still consider the kitty a prime suspect and the fact that you were unaffected by cats in years past isn't highly relevant. Adult Onset Allergies are very common (a google search is informative) and you may want to make an appointment with an allergist to determine the allergen.