Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is a mental health disorder in which a person fears going out in public places where he or she may feel helpless, trapped, or embarrassed in the event of a panic attack. People with this condition have a fear of losing control during a panic attack, and they often start to avoid the situations that they fear or insist on having another person go with them.
Agoraphobia may interfere with normal daily activities and personal relationships. People with severe agoraphobia may become completely homebound and dependent on others for daily tasks, such as grocery shopping and taking care of errands.
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety. It usually begins before age 35, but it can start in older adult years. People with agoraphobia are at risk for other anxiety disorders, depression, and substance abuse.
What are the causes?
The cause of this condition is not known. A variety of factors such as fear of sensations and emotions in anxiety (anxiety sensitivity), family history of anxiety (genetics), and stressful events may contribute to this condition.
What increases the risk?
You are more likely to develop this condition if:
What are the signs or symptoms?
You may have agoraphobia if you have any of the following symptoms for 6 months or longer:
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed based on:
Your symptoms. You will be asked questions about your fears and how they have affected you.
Your medical history and your use of medicines, alcohol, or drugs.
Physical exam and lab tests. These are usually ordered to rule out other problems that may be causing your symptoms.
You may be referred to a mental health specialist (psychiatrist or psychologist).
How is this treated?
This condition is usually treated using a combination of counseling and medicines.
- Counseling or talk therapy. Talk therapy is provided by mental health specialists. The following forms of talk therapy can be especially helpful:
- Medicines. The following types of medicines may be helpful:
Antidepressants. These can decrease general levels of anxiety and can help to prevent panic attacks.
Benzodiazepines. These medicines block feelings of anxiety and panic.
Beta-blockers. Beta blockers can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating, tremors, and a racing heart. They may help you to feel less tense and anxious.
Follow these instructions at home:
Lifestyle
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Try to exercise. Get 150 or more minutes of physical activity each week. Also aim to do strengthening exercises two or more times a week.
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Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein. Do not eat a lot of foods that are high in solid fats, added sugars, or salt (sodium).
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Get the right amount and quality of sleep. Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep each night.
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Do not drink alcohol.
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Do not use illegal drugs.
General instructions
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For more information, visit the website of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA):
www.adaa.org
Contact a health care provider if:
If you ever feel like you may hurt yourself or others, or have thoughts about taking your own life, get help right away. You can go to your nearest emergency department or call:
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Your local emergency services (911 in the U.S.).
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A suicide crisis helpline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. This is open 24 hours a day.
Summary
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Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder that causes a person to avoid situations that he or she fears, such as being in public or being in crowded spaces.
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People with agoraphobia often have panic attacks. They may avoid situations in which they feel escape is difficult or panic attacks are likely to occur.
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Agoraphobia is treated with medicines or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.