Introduction to Emetophobia
Causes, Prevalence and Characteristics of the Phobia of Vomiting
This snapshot of emetophobia looks at the prevalence, causes and behaviors associated with the extreme fear of being sick.
Emetophobia is an extreme, irrational fear of vomiting, characterized by avoidance of anything relating to sickness. It is considered to be a common phobia, appearing to affect more women than men. It can be lasting and disruptive, and may greatly affect the sufferer’s ability to function.
Types of Emetophobia
Sufferers may be afraid of themselves and/or others being sick. Emetophobia can be a vicious circle in that sufferers may experience nausea as a symptom of anxiety, which in turn strengthens their phobia. In some cases, there may be a nauseating illness present. Emetophobia is therefore sometimes referred to as either “anxiety-based” or “nausea-based”.
Understanding Emetophobia
Emetophobia may begin in childhood and can become chronic and pervasive. Sufferers will avoid, as often as possible, situations that may lead to vomiting, even if the actual likelihood of vomiting is very low. Safety-seeking behaviors might include meticulous hygiene, overcooking food or observing others for signs of illness. Here are some of the life areas that may be affected, with examples of some possible concerns:
- Eating – risks of foodborne illness and food intolerance
- Sleeping – dreams of vomiting and/or childhood memories of being ill in the night
- Working – being with people who may be contagious with vomiting illnesses
- Socializing – again, being near people, particularly those who may vomit from alcohol consumption
- Pregnancy – risk of morning sickness and sickness in labor
- Parenthood – coping with their children becoming unwell
- Relationships – difficulties with intimacy and dealing with the phobic behaviors
- Traveling – risks of motion sickness and being away from home
Experiences will undoubtedly vary. Some sufferers will relate to many of these concerns and some will have different ones, but with a common feature to avoid anything linked to vomiting.
Prevalence of Emetophobia
Emetophobia is frequently referred to as common, affecting mostly women. It is difficult to estimate the number of sufferers and gender variances, given that many sufferers may feel demoralized and ashamed by their phobia, and therefore uncomfortable about seeking help. Some sufferers may want to avoid surgeries and hospitals, for fear of infection or exposure to others being sick. Another notable factor is that emetophobia may be misdiagnosed, perhaps for other phobias, and sometimes for eating disorders in cases where eating difficulties have resulted in weight loss.
Causes of Emetophobia
Causes may be psychological and biological, though there is currently no research to cite. One theory suggests that emetophobia may be triggered by vomiting experiences in childhood, and other theories make links to areas such as sexual abuse or problems with balance. There may also be genetic factors in emetophobia. It is notable that children of sufferers often develop the phobia as well.
When asked, sufferers often attribute their phobia to a fear of losing control, though others also highlight fears such as choking or being embarrassed in front of others.
Treating Emetophobia
Emetophobia is considered difficult to treat and there has been little research on this area. Some of the following have been highlighted as possible treatments:
- Medications, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs and anti-emetics (anti-nausea drugs)
- Behavioral therapies, including flooding, systematic desensitization and graded exposure therapy
- Psychotherapy, in particular cognitive behavioral therapy
For more information on phobias, including advice on treatments, read The Causes and Cures of Phobias. Anyone suffering with symptoms of emetophobia should contact a qualified health practitioner for advice. Sufferers can asked to be referred to a practitioner who specializes in treating anxiety disorders.
Sources
Emetophobia: preliminary results of an internet survey, Depression and Anxiety, accessed on 4th May 2008, authors – Lipsitz, J.D; Fyer, A.J; Paterniti, A; Klein, D.F
Vomit Phobia: Dr David Veale’s website, accessed on 4th May 2008, author – Veale, D
