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Claustrophobia

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Claustrophobia

Definition

Claustrophobia is a fear of closed-in or small spaces. Treatment can help manage this condition.

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Causes

The cause of claustrophobia is not known. It may be a mix of genes and environment.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of claustrophobia are:

  • Family members with claustrophobia
  • Other mental health problems, such as anxiety

Symptoms

Claustrophobia starts during the child or teen years.

Problems may be:

  • Sweating
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Fast breathing
  • Problems breathing
  • Shaking
  • Lightheadedness or fainting
  • Nausea
  • Feelings of dread or terror

A person may also:

  • Look for exit doors when in a room
  • Feel very nervous if doors are shut
  • Not use elevators, subways, or airplanes
  • Not travel in a car in heavy traffic
  • Stand near exit doors in crowded places

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

Claustrophobia may go away on its own. Others may need treatment to manage the fear. Options are:

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent claustrophobia.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Anxiety disorders. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders.
  • LeBeau RT, Glenn D, et al. Specific phobia: a review of DSM-IV specific phobia and preliminary recommendations for DSM-V. Depress Anxiety. 2010;27(2):148-167.
  • Specific phobia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/specific-phobia.
  • Treatment. Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Available at: https://adaa.org/finding-help/treatment.

Contributors

  • Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated:
2022-09-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.