Symptoms of claustrophobia

Panic attacks are common among people with claustrophobia. They can be very frightening and distressing and symptoms often occur without warning.

As well as overwhelming feelings of anxiety, a panic attack can also cause physical symptoms, such as:

  • sweating
  • trembling
  • hot flushes or chills
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • a choking sensation
  • rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest
  • a sensation of butterflies in the stomach
  • nausea
  • headaches and dizziness
  • feeling faint
  • numbness or pins and needles
  • dry mouth
  • a need to go to the toilet
  • ringing in your ears
  • feeling confused or disorientated

If you have severe claustrophobia, youmay also experience psychological symptoms such as:

  • fear of losing control
  • fear of fainting
  • feelings of dread
  • fear of dying
Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018