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Pnigophobia, the fear of suffocating, is a common phobia often accompanied by panic attacks or anxiety. It can be caused by past experiences or feelings of being choked. Treatment options include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Severe cases may require extensive therapy and medication.
The fear of suffocating, also known as pnigophobia, is a relatively common phobia. Some may have a fear of choking during a panic attack, as a tightness in the throat or chest is common during these episodes, or they may have a generalized fear of being choked or suffocated. The exact number of sufferers is difficult to pinpoint, but it is widespread.
Sometimes the fear of suffocating comes along with another fear, such as a fear of small spaces or claustrophobia. Other times, the fear of being choked or suffocated comes from having nearly suffocated before, either from choking on food or from being attacked. However, other times, the fear of suffocating occurs due to the suffocating sensations many people experience during a panic attack or anxiety episode. Since panic and anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental illness, the fear of suffocating to some extent probably occurs more often than experts realize.
Those who have experienced choking may have the hardest time with their fears, as they can generally recall the feelings of not being able to breathe very clearly. If a sufferer was suffocating at the hands of another, his fears can be accompanied by a distrust of people and society, which can lead to delays in treatment. The fear of suffocating caused by these circumstances is often accompanied by other fears and anxieties because the person is not only dealing with a phobia, but also with coming to terms with past abuse.
There are several potential treatment options that can help relieve the fear of choking. Therapy with a qualified counselor is typically needed, as they can provide coping mechanisms to use during feelings of panic fear and can also offer insight into what may have caused the phobia to begin. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be used. This is when a patient intentionally experiences or visualizes a frightening event to lessen its effect over time.
Other methods that can help treat the fear of choking include prescription antidepressant medications, hypnotherapy, or acupuncture. Certain vitamins and minerals and dietary options can also help with symptoms. Exercise is another good option, as it helps release endorphins and “feel good” hormones into the bloodstream, both of which help fight feelings of anxiety.
If your fear of choking is accompanied by panic attacks, depression, or suicidal thoughts and tendencies, you should seek medical help immediately. Anxiety disorders and phobias can range from mild to very severe, with some patients experiencing debilitating forms of the disorders that can impact every aspect of their lives. These people may need extensive therapy, various medications, and long-term counseling to overcome their phobias.
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