Im an asthmatic using nicotine patch to quit smoking and it gives me shortness of breath is that common?

The symptom of shortness of breath has many underlying causes. Since you have asthma, follow your asthma action plan as outlined by your PCP. The use of only Albuterol without an inhaled steroid for chronic symptoms is not recommended by the guidelines currently. Smoking may lead to COPD and inflammation in the lung and a pulmonary function test and image may be ordered by your PCP.