Definition

A phobia is an intensely fearful response to a situation or object. Phobias can interfere with different aspects of your life. Most phobias develop in childhood, though some develop during adulthood.

There are many kinds of phobias, which can be grouped into these categories:

• Agoraphobia —Fear of being trapped in places or situations where escape could be difficult or impossible.
• Social phobia —Fear of social situations and being judged or evaluated by others.
• Specific phobia—Fear of a specific object or a situation.

Causes

The cause of phobias is unknown. It may be a combination of genetic factors, family environment, critical life stressors, and underlying temperament that interact to enhance or trigger cerebral fear networks.

People with phobias cannot control their anxiety.

Risk Factors

Phobias are more common in women than in men. They also tend to run in families.

You may have an increased chance of developing a phobia if:

• You have an immediate family member with a phobia
• You have a significant stressful event in your past such as trauma, family difficulties, or physical illness

Symptoms

Symptoms occur when you are exposed to the object or situation that you fear. Your fear may become more intense if you can't easily get away from it.

Psychological symptoms may include:

• Having intense feelings of panic and extreme anxiety when exposed to the phobia
• Being afraid that you are going to be hurt, losing control, going crazy, or dying
• Having a feeling of unreality or being detached from your body
• Being aware that the fear is abnormal, but not being able to control your reaction
• Feeling the desire to flee from your fear or taking extreme steps to avoid it
• Experiencing fear that interferes with your daily activities

Physical symptoms may include:

• Racing, pounding, or skipping heartbeat
• Difficulty catching your breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Sweating
• Lightheadedness, feeling faint
• Nausea
• Tingling or numbness in parts of the body
• Hot or cold flashes
• Shaking or trembling

Physical Effects of Anxiety

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Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical and psychological exam will be done.

There are no tests that can diagnose phobias. The diagnosis will be made based on your symptoms.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment may include 1 or more of the following:

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent phobias because the exact cause is unknown.