Agoraphobia
The severity of agoraphobia can vary significantly between individuals.
For example, someone with severe agoraphobia may be unable to leave the house, whereas someone who has mild agoraphobia may be able to travel short distances without problems.
The symptoms of agoraphobia can be broadly classified into three types:
These are explained in more detail below.
The physical symptoms of agoraphobia usually only occur when you find yourself in a situation or environment that causes anxiety .
However, many people with agoraphobia rarely experience physical symptoms because they deliberately avoid situations that make them anxious.
The physical symptoms of agoraphobia can be similar to those of a Panic disorder and may include:
The cognitive symptoms of agoraphobia are feelings or thoughts that can be, but aren't always, related to the physical symptoms.
Cognitive symptoms may include fear that:
There are also psychological symptoms that aren't related to panic attacks, such as:
Symptoms of agoraphobia relating to behaviour include:
Some people are able to force themselves to confront uncomfortable situations, but they feel considerable fear and anxiety while doing so.
Speak to your GP if you think you have the symptoms of agoraphobia.
You should also seek medical advice if you have any of the following:
Agoraphobia is a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong. Many people assume agoraphobia is simply a fear of open spaces, but it's actually amore complex condition.
The severity of agoraphobia can vary significantly between individuals. For example, someone with severe agoraphobia may be unable to leave the house, whereas someone who has mild agoraphobia may be able to travel short distances without problems.
Most cases of agoraphobia develop as a complication of panic disorder. Agoraphobia can sometimes develop if a person has a panic attack in a specific situation or environment.
Speak to your GP i f you think you have agoraphobia. If you're unable to visit your GP in person, it should be possible to arrange a telephone consultation. Your GP will ask you to describe your symptoms, how often they occur, and in what situations.
A stepwise approach is usually recommended for treating agoraphobia and any underlying panic disorder.
Claire Ledger was diagnosed with agoraphobia after having a number of panic attacks in public places. She describes the impact it had on her life and how she overcame it.