Understanding Emetophobia: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Emetophobia is a specific phobia referring to an extreme fear of vomiting, watching other people vomiting or seeing vomit. People who suffer from emetophobia may spend much time thinking about their fear and worrying about vomiting. Also, the fear may interfere with many aspects of the patient’s life as he could avoid certain activities such as eating out or travelling. Specific phobias often develop after a specific incident, but they could also develop without a clear cause. Most of the cases develop in childhood.

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Signs & symptoms

Symptoms may include eliminating food or places associated with vomiting, avoiding eating or drinking new food and beverages, eating slowly and small amounts, eating only at home, smelling and checking the food before eating it and many more.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include an interview with a mental health professional.

Treatment

Treatment may include psychological therapy, especially exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Sometimes, medications may be suggested as well.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital