aye. i carry a patch kit in case my extra tubes fail me. god hates me and gives me flats a lot. my record is 5 in one day. i didn't ride for a couple weeks after that i was so pissed. (and no it wasn't something in my rim or tire, just really sharp granite with medium drops)
for breathing, just keep riding. the more you do, the easier it becomes, do things outside of riding as well, running, jump ropes, etc...