Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Verywell / Jiaqi Zhou
What Is Emetophobia?
Emetophobia is the fear of vomiting.
However, one study suggests that emetophobia is rare in that it exists in 0.1% of the population.
Verywell / Jiaqi Zhou
Emetophobia may be related to other fears, such as having a fear of food.
The fear of throwing up is often, but not always,triggeredby a negative experience with vomiting.
The risk of emetophobia may be higher if you remember throwing up in public, for example.
When vomiting happens at times or in places that are embarrassing or inconvenient, it can be highly distressing.
This fear may also develop if you experience a long night of uncontrollable vomiting.
This inability to control the situation can lead to a fear of vomiting.
Or you might be most comfortable in a particular room of your home, or even outside.
They may also be extremely anxious about long car trips and feel safer when they do the driving.
You are afraid to vomit, and the fear causes nausea.
Nausea makes you feel like vomiting which, in turn, triggers your phobia and makes you more afraid.
Some who live with emetophobia develop social anxiety oragoraphobia.
Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)is one option for people with emetophobia.
CBT can help individuals with this condition confront their fears and replace their negative thoughts regarding throwing up.
One bang out of CBT found beneficial for people with emetophobia and panic attacks isexposure-based therapy.
Medication
Medication may also be suggested in some cases.
Gastrointestinal medications may help relieve physical symptoms of emetophobia, such as nausea.
They can also assist with digestive problems that can perpetuate or exacerbate this fear.
It’s important to engage in self-care when managing your emetophobia as well.
Gettingadequate rest, eating anutritious diet, and incorporatingexerciseinto your routine can all benefit your overall mental health.
Find out which option is the best for you.
A Word From Verywell
It can take some time and effort, but emetophobia can be overcome.
There are several resources that can help with this fear, such as engaging in therapy.
2017;26(1):59-61.
