Phobias describe a persistent, irrational or exaggerated fear of a particular object, situation, activity, setting or even a bodily function. People with phobias usually recognize that the fear is inappropriate to the situation. However, they are unable to control the emotional response and try to avoid the agent or object that precipitates the phobia. There are several types of phobias. They include Social phobias, where there is a fear of embarrassment in social situations, such as public speaking or using a public bathroom. Agoraphobia represents the fear of being in crowds or fear of public places. Over a million people in the U.S. suffer agoraphobia and almost 90% of people with this disorder are women. Simple phobias represent the fear of a particular type of stimulus, such as animals, insects, heights, flying, closed places, etc.
Causes of Phobias
The underlying cause for the development of a phobia is not known. It possibly represents a learned response or conditioning. Living with someone with a similar fear or having an early frightening experience that has become associated with the object or situation may contribute to the development of a phobia. Also, the phobia may have a symbolic meaning.
Signs and Symptoms of Phobias
Phobias of all types produce a relentless desire to avoid the stimulus that causes the phobia. When confronted with the cause of the phobia, the person responds with increased heart rate, palpitations, sweating and flushing. Tremors, nausea and vomiting may occur.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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