Claustrophobia – It is one of the anxiety disorders which causes an intense fear of enclosed spaces. If you feel very upset or nervous or lead to panic attacks in a closed space such as an elevator or closed lift or locked room then you are suffering from claustrophobia. Claustrophobia is one of the most common phobias in which you feel fear or panic attacks in a locked room or close lift.

When you have a problem with claustrophobia then you may experience panic attacks, difficulty in breathing, and intense fear in a closed area or room. Several situations may trigger or increase the risk of claustrophobia

• In a small or locked room with no windows
• Standing in a large but crowded room during any marriage ceremony or any party
• Sitting in a small car
• Standing at a closed lift or packed elevator
• Undergoing a CT scan or MRI

Causes of Claustrophobia – Claustrophobia may develop in individuals in their teenage years or their childhood days. Tragic incidents or traumatic events in childhood days or at a young age that may be the main cause of claustrophobia. Several individuals may suffer from claustrophobia if their parents or family member may have a problem with claustrophobia. In some cases, you are suffering from claustrophobia due to a tragic incident during childhood such as abuse, bullying, any accident in a closed space, and many more.

Symptoms of claustrophobia – The symptoms of claustrophobia are different for every individual. There are several common symptoms of claustrophobia are given below –

• Sweating
• Difficulty in breathing
• Dizziness
• Hot flashes
• Fast heartbeat
• Chest tightness or pain
• Headache
• Fear of harm or death
• Nausea
• Numbness

Treatment of Claustrophobia – There are several types of counseling or therapies, which can help in overcoming the intense fear in any closed room are discussed below –

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This type of therapy teaches how to deal with negative thoughts which arise from difficult situations and may trigger claustrophobia.
• Visualization and Relaxation – This type of therapy provides visualization and relaxation techniques to use if you are suffering from claustrophobia situation in any time. These techniques contain exercises like counting from 1 to 10 that help in calming your nerves and lower or ease your panic attacks in a locked room
• Exposure therapy – This type of therapy is commonly used in treating anxiety phobias and conditions. In this type of therapy, you will place in a closed room or non-dangerous situation which triggers claustrophobia and prevent your fear.
• Medication – If these therapies are not beneficial for you, then the doctor can prescribe anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants that helps in treating your physical symptoms and intense fear.