Phobia can be defined as irrational fear of something that can interfere with normal activities. There are many types of phobia which are basically anxiety disorder and can be fully treated. Agoraphobia is fear of public places where there is large number of people. They would avoid taking part in any social events and avoid places that might cause them panic attack. For instance, it makes them impossible to use public transport system and remain in open places for long. They avoid living in a crowd and prefer to be isolated.
This type of irrational fear would cause intense anxiety in them and they often become helpless and give them a feeling of getting trapped. This feeling would worsen their fear causing panic attack. They can get comfort only if they find suitable companion like friend or close relative while in public places. Many times, this fear would disable them to leave their home independently. However, with proper cognitive behavior therapy and medications it can be cured.
Facts on Agoraphobia :
- Agoraphobia is reported to occur in 2-7% of total population in the world.
- In simple terms, agoraphobia can be defined as fear of being outside.
- Experiencing stressful events or having anxiety disorder can cause agoraphobia.
- Agoraphobia can be difficult to diagnose, since people having this disorder will always tend to avoid situations or events that makes them stressed.
- It can cause symptoms like intense fear, dizziness and even panic attack.
- Agoraphobia begins in early adolescence and may continue till your death if you are not seeking any treatment.
- If the patient seeks medical care, agoraphobia can be fully treated.
- Women who are single or divorced can develop agoraphobia and feel insecure most of the time.
Symptoms :
The person with agoraphobia can develop intense fear while being in public places or crowd. He would develop fear to be alone and avoid going to public events in the fear of losing control. They would avoid traveling alone in train or public buses where it can be difficult to get down until the stop comes.
In severe cases, such people will not leave their home alone and always rely on someone to visit event the nearest public place. They have a sense of helplessness and fear and due to this feeling they become dependent on others very often.
Symptoms of Panic Attack :
In many cases, people with agoraphobia develop panic attack which can cause palpitation, excess of sweating, rapid heartbeat, a feeling of numbness in hands and legs, tightness in chest, sudden flushes and chills, sudden diarrhea, drowsiness and loss of control. In extreme fear they would feel like dying if not possible to escape immediately from the place. The intense fear would trigger these physical reactions and they often feel like losing control.