Most people will experience at least one phobia in their lives. For example, they might fear flying, heights, water, or tall buildings. Yet, medical phobias can be more detrimental to a person’s health, quality of life, and even lifespan.
Most medical phobias have similar symptoms, such as irrational thoughts, extreme fear, or panic attacks. Also, the anxious feelings are likely to increase the closer they are to an appointment or procedure. Read on to learn about the four most common medical phobias and how to overcome them.
- Tomophobia
Tomophobia is a fear of surgical procedures and medical interventions. The thought of an operation may even prevent a person from seeking treatment for a health issue. It is a serious fear that a person must address to protect their wellbeing and enjoy a long, healthy life.
If you have tomophobia, visit a doctor or psychologist about the problem. It is likely they will recommend cognitive behavioral therapy, as it could change your thought patterns to help you seek medical help and overcome your fear of surgery or medical interventions.
- Dentophobia
Most people don’t look forward to a visit to a dentist, but some are so afraid they might avoid appointments altogether. If they do find the courage to visit, they might experience intense anxiety that causes much upset. Skipping dental checkups and treatments will lead to spiraling oral health issues, as it will increase a person’s risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Again, cognitive behavioral therapy could help you overcome dentophobia. Also, it would be wise to find an understanding dental clinic that takes the time to listen to your worries and concerns.
For example, this reputable dentist in Asheville NC is a family-friendly dental office that strives to make you feel comfortable from the waiting room to the dental chair. You can then feel confident during a full oral exam, dental cleaning, filling, or root planning.
- Trypanophobia
Adults and children will need to receive various vaccinations during their life, from health shots to travel injections. Some may start with a general fear of needles that may evolve into a genuine phobia over the years.
It is essential to address the issue to avoid various health conditions throughout your life. For example, you may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, or anti-anxiety medication.
- Hemophobia
Have you ever felt squeamish when watching blood rush out of an open wound in real life or on TV? Imagine if this feeling was multiplied, as this is what it’s like to live with hemophobia.
People living with this fear not only struggle with the sight of blood, but they will experience a racing heartbeat and increased blood pressure that can cause them to faint. Plus, the phobia could prevent them from seeking medical attention or stepping inside a doctor’s practice, hospital, or dental office.
If you have an intense fear of blood, you may benefit from exposure therapy. Visualization exercises could help you face your fear of blood and ease your feelings of anxiety.
However, cognitive behavioral therapy could improve your understanding of your fear of blood. Plus, it will create a more realistic idea of the steps taken during various tests or following injuries with blood.