Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is the fear situations where escape could be difficult, or you doubt that you would not receive any help if you are in trouble. It is a kind of Anxiety disorder. Most of the people having this Phobia develop it only after having more than one panic attacks. Hence, you avoid places where you might have had a panic attack in the past or feel that you will get one.

You might worry about Public transportation, Open and large spaces like bridges or parking spaces, Enclosed spaces like stores or movie theatres, crowded places and traveling alone. As a result of these fears you just go to a limited number of places so that you can cut down on the number of panic attacks.

These are some of the Symptoms you might observe in a Person suffering from Agoraphobia:

The physical symptoms

Symptoms are Similar to a  panic attack

• Increase in Heart Beat
• Fast and shallow breathing (hyperventilating)
• Pain in the Chest area
• Inability to swallow (dysphagia)
• Diarrhea

The cognitive symptoms

The cognitive symptoms are generally a result of your thoughts regarding your past experiences of a panic attack.

• You fear a panic attack because it causes embarrassment
• You fear that your heart will stop or you will not be able to breathe
• Fear that you might lose your  sanity
• You have a fear of Losing control in public places

The Behavioural symptoms

• You Avoid situations that could lead to a panic attack, like crowded places, public transport, and queues
• Inability to leave the house for long periods of time
• You need to be with someone you trust when you are going anywhere
• Avoid being far away from home
• Some people are able to force themselves to confront uncomfortable situations, but they feel considerable fear and anxiety while doing so.

Treatment:

All kinds of Phobias can be treated with Psychotherapy. Therefore, Visit An expert to understand, manage and overcome Agoraphobia.

How to manage your Symptoms :

• Have a plan for management and stick to that
• Learn to stay calm in these extreme situations
• Face your fears
• Stay away from recreational drugs and alcohol
• Do physical activity, have a balanced diet, and get enough sleep

Learn more About Dr Prerna Kohli