Carcinophobia

Definition

Definition of Carcinophobia
Carcinophobia is the fear of cancer. The origin of the word carcino is Greek (meaning cancer) and phobia is Greek (meaning fear). Carcinophobia is considered to be a specific phobia, which is discussed on the home page. Carcinophobia is also known as Cancerophobia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Carcinophobia
As with any phobia, the symptoms vary by person depending on their level of fear. The symptoms typically include extreme anxiety, dread and anything associated with panic such as shortness of breath, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, sweating, excessive sweating, nausea, dry mouth, nausea, inability to articulate words or sentences, dry mouth and shaking.

Causes

Causes of Carcinophobia
It is generally accepted that phobias arise from a combination of external events (i.e. traumatic events) and internal predispositions (i.e. heredity or genetics). Many specific phobias can be traced back to a specific triggering event, usually a traumatic experience at an early age. Social phobias and agoraphobia have more complex causes that are not entirely known at this time. It is believed that heredity, genetics, and brain chemistry combine with life-experiences to play a major role in the development of phobias.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Carcinophobia
The vast majority of cases of Carcinophobia are self-diagnosed. The individual realizes that their fear of cancer is irrational and is severely compromising their ability to function on a daily basis.

The carcinophobic person may discuss their phobia with the primary physician. Rarely would the doctor diagnosis Carcinophobia based on that initial discussion with the patient. More routinely, after ruling out any medical reason for this phobia, the doctor will refer the person to a mental health professional for comprehensive assessment and evaluation.

Treatment

Treatment of Carcinophobia
Medicine can be prescribed, but please note that these medications can have side effects and/or withdrawal systems that can be severe. It is also importation to note that medicines do not cure phobias, at best they only temporarily suppress the systems. However, there are treatments for phobias, which include counseling, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, and Neuro-Linguistic programming. Please click on the link at the top of the page called “Treatment Information” to find out more information on these types of treatments.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Carcinophobia
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Carcinophobia
Consult with your doctor.