Agoraphobia: Fear of Spaces Part 1

Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder that is linked to fear. Individuals who have agoraphobia generally have fear of being in a place where they do not feel safe. Individuals with agoraphobia usually avoid places where they feel they may develop a panic attack. In general, most public places are avoided because of the irresistible fear that they may not be able to seek help. The majority of these individuals remain trapped in their homes, where they feel safe and live a life of seclusion.

The typical symptoms of agoraphobia include extreme fear of being alone, fear of being in a crowded places, fear of losing control in a public place, feelings of insecurity when leaving the home, a dreadful sense of helplessness when outside the home, extreme dependence on others and a feeling that body is imaginary. The physical symptoms are similar to a panic attack and may include dizziness, fast heart rate, difficulty breathing, nausea, flushing, chest pain, feeling a loss of control, difficulty swallowing and stomach upset.
Some experts believe that agoraphobia is simply an extension of panic disorder. However not all individuals with a panic disorder develop agoraphobia.

Agoraphobia usually starts in late adolescence and peaks in the 2/3^rd decade of life. It is estimated that nearly 1-5 percent of individuals develop some degree of agoraphobia during their lifetime. The disorder tends to affect women more than men. Like most mental disorders, the exact cause of agoraphobia is a mystery. Rick factors for agoraphobia include having a diagnosis of panic disorder, having experienced physical, sexual or emotional abuse during childhood, tendency of being edgy or anxious, having a history of alcohol/substance abuse, and being a female.

Agoraphobia: "unrealistic fear" Part 1

Agoraphobia is a mental disorder associated with unrealistic fear. The syndrome is intricately linked to anxiety. People who have agoraphobia fear being in certain places and easily develop panic like symptoms.

Agoraphobia tends to make people afraid even in open public places like elevators, bridges, high buildings, sporting events, use of public transportation, shopping malls and air planes. This fear can be so devastating that many people are trapped in their homes- this is the only place where they feel safe and rarely venture outside. Some individuals even fear being left alone at home, feel feeble and become dependent on others.

Agoraphobia is difficult to treat because it means confronting the fears. Other symptoms of agoraphobia include difficulty breathing, dizziness, sweating, fast heart rate, nausea, facial flushing, stomach cramps, chest pain, feeling complete lack of control, difficulty swallowing and a sense of doom.