Agoraphobia Scenarios

Agoraphobia is the fear of a situation or place. The common signs and symptoms are the fear of being in enclosed or public places for fear something might trigger an anxiety attack. Because of this they don’t tend to go out. This can lead to other complications. Treatment consists of psychotherapy and medications. The nurse should teach the patient other therapies such as relaxation methods.
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder where you fear situations or places that may cause you to feel trapped or embarrassed. Those with agoraphobia actually avoid places where they may be in enclosed spaces or out in public. Their anxiety stems from having one or more panic attacks. Because of these attacks they avoid the place or
situation, fearing it may trigger another attack (Mayo Clinic, 2014). According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly one in three people with panic disorder will develop Agoraphobia in their lives (ADAA, 2016).
Signs and Symptoms There are many signs and symptoms that go along with Agoraphobia. The most frequent symptoms include things such as the fear of being alone in any situation, the fear of being in a crowded place, or losing control in a public place. They avoid places like public transportation, concerts, or shopping malls. Like claustrophobia they do not like being in enclosed spaces such as trains or elevators. Agoraphobia makes people fear leaving their homes so they may not go out, have a sense of helplessness, and depend on others more than normal. Along with these symptoms, they may also experience associated with panic attacks (Mayo Clinic, 2014).
Complications
As stated earlier, those with Agoraphobia fear public places. This leads them to an extraordinarily limited social life. They can’t go spend time with their friends or families or even take care of necessary errands. This causes them to be more dependent on others, resulting in strained relationships. Agoraphobia can lead to things like depression, other mental health disorders, and alcohol or drug misuse due to the feelings of guilt and helplessness (Mayo Clinic, 2014).
Diagnostic Testing There is no specific test to diagnose Agoraphobia.
If someone suspects they may have Agoraphobia they should call their health care provider. If the person cannot make it into the doctor’s office, an appointment can be made over the phone. The physician would then ask the patient questions concerning the symptoms and what they are feeling. The physician may then want to do a physical examination. They may also decide to do testing of the blood and thyroid. These tests would rule out any underlying causes. If there are no other medical causes and the patient has the symptoms, only then can a diagnosis be made (NHS,
2016).
Treatment
After a diagnosis has been made, treatment can begin. Treatment consists of both psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy is also called talk therapy. It involves speaking with a therapist about ways to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. The use of psychotherapy is usually short-term. Therapists are usually aware that the patient won’t want to leave their homes so they might meet them in the home for the first meeting or offer to meet them in areas the person considers a “safe zone”.
Physicians may also prescribe medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxieties. There are specific antidepressants used for Agoraphobia called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. They include medications like Paxil and Prozac. Anti-anxieties, like Xanax and Klonopin, are sedatives used as a short-term treatment. They are used to relieve anxiety symptoms but are habit forming.
Patient Teaching and Considerations
Besides medical therapies there are several things the nurse can teach the patient about reducing anxiety.
They can teach the patient relaxation methods. Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises are all things that can be done in the home. Inform the patient that they should stick to their treatment plan. They should continue to take their medication and keep all appointments. The nurse should let the patient know that they should avoid all illicit drugs and alcohol. These substances can worsen the symptoms of panic and anxiety. Lastly, the nurse should encourage the patient to take care of themselves. This includes getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and eating a well-balanced diet (Mayo Clinic,
2014).