Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by a severe dread of overwhelm, helplessness, and being unable to flee or receive assistance.
People who suffer from agoraphobia frequently steer clear of novel environments and circumstances due to fear and anxiety, such as:
- Expansive, open regions or confined confines.
- Masses.
- Locations other than their house.
- Public transit.
When does agoraphobia occur?
Researchers are unsure of agoraphobia’s precise etiology. But it’s frequently linked to an underlying panic problem. Short, powerful episodes of terror without any apparent explanation are a symptom of panic disorder. A third of those with panic disorder go on to develop agoraphobia. But agoraphobia can also happen on its own.
Signs and Origins
What signs of agoraphobia are present?
Anxiety is a common emotion for everyone to feel occasionally. But excessive worry brought on by an anxiety disorder interferes with day-to-day functioning. Extreme stress and fear are common symptoms of agoraphobia, which may lead one to avoid certain circumstances. A panic attack and agoraphobia share comparable symptoms.
The following symptoms could appear while you’re in fear-inducing environments or situations:
- Fast heartbeat or chest discomfort.
- Fear, or a queasy sensation.
- Breathing difficulties or hyperventilation.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Chills or a sudden flush (hot, red face).
- Sweating excessively (hyperhidrosis).
- Upset stomach.
Why does agoraphobia arise?
Researchers are unsure of agoraphobia’s precise etiology. But it’s frequently linked to an underlying panic problem. Short, powerful episodes of terror without any apparent explanation are a symptom of panic disorder. A third of those with panic disorder go on to develop agoraphobia. But agoraphobia can also happen on its own.
What are the agoraphobia risk factors?
The following are risk factors for agoraphobia development:
- Experiencing panic episodes.
- Reacting excessively anxious and fearful to panic episodes.
- Having further fears.
- Going through difficult times in life, such losing a loved one or being abused or
- assaulted, especially as a youngster.
- Having anxiety issues or being sensitive to anxiety.
- Having an agoraphobic relative.
Diagnoses and Examinations
How can agoraphobia be identified?
Speak with your primary care physician or a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, if you believe you may have agoraphobia and the anxiety is affecting your day-to-day functioning. It could be possible to arrange a phone or video session if you’re nervous about seeing a doctor in person.
The medical professional might query you:
- Do you have anxiety when you leave your home?
- Are there any settings or circumstances that you steer clear of out of fear? Why does it make people afraid?
- Do you depend on other people to run your errands and buy for you?
Based on the frequency and severity of your symptoms, a medical professional can make an agoraphobia diagnosis. Being truthful and forthright with your providers is crucial. If your symptoms match certain criteria established by the American Psychiatric Association, your physician may diagnose you with agoraphobia. A person must experience significant fear or panic in at least two of the following scenarios in order to be diagnosed with agoraphobia:
- Taking the public transit system.
- Being in a public area.
- Being in a small business, meeting room, or movie theater—any confined location.
- Being surrounded by people or in a line.
- Leaving their house by themselves.
