We recommend such a mask for our patients that have such symptoms, as well as those patients with a history of asthma, asthmatic bronchitis, chronic lung diseases (like emphysema and bronchitis--asthma fits this category, too) and heart diseases. We also tell woodworkers using tailed apprentices in their shops to wear masks, too...and have a micro-filtration system if feasible for the entire shop environment.
Filters have to be cleaned after each use--so you'll have adaquate airflow characteristics "through" the mask itself.
Ditto on the other suggested option, is hiring another to do the job...
I was an asthmatic kid, too...and suffered similar symptoms as you describe--talk about miserable--sheesh--and then my asthma would quickly be triggered.
By the way...using the OTC medications for allergy maintenance are certainly acceptable--but make sure if you a heart patient or you've a history of high blood pressure, you ask your doc about OTC antihistamine type medications--
Joe