I recently had a panic attack, it was awful needless to say. ever since then, i've had difficulty breathing- shortness of breath to keep it short. is this normal? i'm genuinely concerned about my health?

You need to see a therapist for cognitive behavior therapy. Those symptoms are common in panic attack or panic disorder. Your physical health is probably fine.

The shortness of breath caused by anxiety tends to be noticeable while at rest rather than with exertion. I think you'd be helped by undergoing stress management therapy and coaching. Discuss this with your MD who can refer you to a proper mental health professional.