10 Common Fears & Phobias
5. Claustrophobia (Fear of Closed Spaces)
People who have claustrophobia have anxiety or intense fear when in enclosed spaces. For some, this phobia crops up only while in cramped places, such as while getting an MRI. For others, panic can ensue while in any kind of closed-up and tight areas, such as in a crowded room, elevator, bathroom stall, car wash, tunnel, subway and even in a car with the windows up. Common symptoms of this phobia include dizziness, nausea, sweating, dry mouth, increased heartbeat and shaking. Panic attacks can last for as little as 5 minutes and up to 30 minutes.
Claustrophobia typically develops at a young age, and there are numerous possible causes. These include seeing a parent’s fear of enclosed spaces, experiencing turbulence in a plane or being stuck in a tight space for a period of time. Common treatment methods include exposure therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques.
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