Agoraphobia
Speak to your GP i f you think you have agoraphobia.
If you're unable to visit your GP in person, it should be possible to arrange a telephone consultation.
Your GP will ask you to describe your symptoms, how often they occur, and in what situations. It's very important to tell your GP about how you've been feeling and how your symptoms are affecting you.
They'll also want to know how your symptoms are affecting your daily behaviour.
For example, they may ask:
It can be difficult to talk to someone else about your feelings, emotions and personal life, but try not to feel anxious or embarrassed. Your GP needs to know as much as possible about your symptoms to make the correct diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Your GP may want to do a physical examination, and in some cases they may decideto carry out Blood tests to look for signs of any physical conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
For example, an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) can sometimes cause symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of a panic attack .
By ruling out any underlying medical conditions, your GP will be able to make the correct diagnosis.
A diagnosis of agoraphobia can usually bemade if:
If there's any doubt about the diagnosis, you may be referred to a psychiatrist for a more detailed assessment.
Agoraphobia is a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong. Many people assume agoraphobia is simply a fear of open spaces, but it's actually amore complex condition.
The severity of agoraphobia can vary significantly between individuals. For example, someone with severe agoraphobia may be unable to leave the house, whereas someone who has mild agoraphobia may be able to travel short distances without problems.
Most cases of agoraphobia develop as a complication of panic disorder. Agoraphobia can sometimes develop if a person has a panic attack in a specific situation or environment.
Speak to your GP i f you think you have agoraphobia. If you're unable to visit your GP in person, it should be possible to arrange a telephone consultation. Your GP will ask you to describe your symptoms, how often they occur, and in what situations.
A stepwise approach is usually recommended for treating agoraphobia and any underlying panic disorder.
Claire Ledger was diagnosed with agoraphobia after having a number of panic attacks in public places. She describes the impact it had on her life and how she overcame it.