Monday, May 16, 2011

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is the fear of being in a place or situation from which escape is difficult or embarrassing, or in which help is unavailable in the event of a panic attack.

Typically emerges in mid teens and usually a direct outgrowth of panic disorder.

Typical places of fear: being on a bridge, elevator or airplane, at a mall or sporting event.

Symptoms: Avoid places where panic attack could occur, usually require a companion, fear of being alone, fear of crowded places, inability to leave ones house for long periods, severe anxiety and things such as chest pains, dizziness, headaches, or fainting spells.

Lab abnormalities: None

Prevalence in population: Girls and women, low-income individuals, and middle-aged individuals have an increased risk.

Heritability: http://www.agoraphobia.ws/hereditary.htm


Additional info: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/agoraphobia/DS00894/DSECTION=symptoms

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