claustrofobie

Claustrofobie, or claustrophobia, is an anxiety disorder characterized by an excessive and persistent fear of confined or crowded spaces. The fear is out of proportion to actual danger and leads to avoidance, distress, or impairment in daily functioning.

It is usually categorized as a specific phobia, situational type. Prevalence estimates vary, but specific phobias affect a notable minority; claustrophobia is among the more commonly reported forms. Onset is often in childhood or adolescence, though it can emerge later.

Causes involve a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental experiences. A family history of anxiety, a traumatic event in a confined space, or an inherently fearful temperament can raise risk. Neurobiology may include heightened amygdala reactivity and fear circuitry.

Symptoms during exposure include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, and a strong urge to escape. Fear may extend to anticipation of being in such spaces; panic attacks can occur in severe cases.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on interview and observation. Clinicians assess fear severity, avoidance patterns, and impairment, and rule out medical conditions or other anxiety disorders with similar symptoms.

Treatment evidence supports cognitive-behavioral therapy with graded or systematic exposure, sometimes aided by virtual reality. CBT may include cognitive strategies to challenge catastrophic thoughts. When needed, medications such as SSRIs or SNRIs can help, typically alongside therapy; benzodiazepines are usually reserved for short-term use.

With appropriate treatment, many people experience reduced symptoms and greater functioning. Some continue to manage mild avoidance, but prognosis is generally favorable compared to untreated claustrophobia.