Phagophobia
Phagophobia
Phagophobia (/fæɡoʊˈfoʊbiə/; from the Greek: φαγείν, phagein, "to eat" and φόβος, phobos, "fear") is a specific psychological disorder characterized by a fear of swallowing. It is often confused with anorexia nervosa, or other eating disorders, but phagophobia is a distinct condition that can exist independently of these disorders.
Etymology
The term "phagophobia" comes from the Greek words phagein meaning "to eat" and phobos meaning "fear". It was first used in medical literature in the late 19th century.
Symptoms
Symptoms of phagophobia may include a fear of choking, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of food being stuck in the throat. These symptoms can lead to a fear of eating and subsequent weight loss. It is important to differentiate phagophobia from other medical conditions such as dysphagia, which is a physical difficulty in swallowing, or achalasia, a disorder of the esophagus that can also cause difficulty swallowing.
Treatment
Treatment for phagophobia often involves a combination of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication. The goal of treatment is to reduce fear and avoidance of swallowing, and to improve the individual's overall quality of life.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phagophobia
- Wikipedia's article - Phagophobia
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