An incapacitating fear of open spaces.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Agoraphobia is a disorder characterized by avoidance of crowds, and open and public places, particularly if escape or assistance is not immediately available. It may occur alone, or may accompany panic disorder . If it occurs with panic disorder, the onset is usually during the 20's, and women are affected more often than men. People with this disorder may become house bound for years, with resulting impairment of social and interpersonal relationships.

Signs and tests

There may be a history of phobias, or the health care provider may receive a description of typical behaviors from family, friends, or the affected person. The pulse (heart rate) is often rapid, sweating is present, and the patient may have high blood pressure .

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to help the phobic person function effectively. The success of treatment usually depends upon the severity of the phobia. Systematic desensitization is a behavioral technique used to treat phobias. It is based upon having the person relax, then imagine the components of the phobia, working from the least fearful to the most fearful. Graded real-life exposure has also been used with success to help people overcome their fears. Antianxiety and antidepressive medications are often used to help relieve the symptoms associated with phobias.

Expectations (prognosis)

Phobias tend to be chronic but respond well to treatment.

Complications

Some phobias may have consequences that affect job performance or social functioning.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of agoraphobia develop.

Prevention

As with other panic disorders, prevention may not be possible. Early intervention may reduce the severity of the condition.