The Fear of Hospitals or Nosocomephobia

The Fear of Hospitals or Nosocomephobia Phobias Types Print The Fear of Hospitals or Nosocomephobia By Lisa Fritscher Lisa Fritscher is a freelance writer and editor with a deep interest in phobias and other mental health topics. Learn about our editorial policy Lisa Fritscher Updated on June 16, 2019 ERproductions Ltd / Blend Images / Getty Images More in Phobias Types Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Treatment Nosocomephobia, or the fear of hospitals, is a surprisingly common medical phobia. In fact, U.S. President Richard Nixon was said to have a fear of hospitals, reportedly refusing treatment for a blood clot as he was concerned he would not get out of the hospital alive. What Is Nosocomephobia? Many people who have hospital phobia are also afraid of doctors (or suffer white coat syndrome, during  which blood pressure actually rises at the doctors office). However, nosocomephobia can also occur alone. Some people are afraid of the building itself, others of what it represents. In this case,  the choice of facilities can make a difference in your level of anxiety. Newer designs, for example, incorporate peaceful colors, spa-like facilities, and such patient comforts as Internet access and private rooms with beds for loved ones. Surprisingly, many insurance providers will pay for either type of hospital, so check with your insurance provider. Although a fear of hospitals is understandableâ€"after all, hospitals are by definition where people go when they are very ill or injured if left untreatedâ€"it can interfere with getting the care you  need. This is especially true if you or someone you love experiences a fear of hospitals along with other medical phobias, including: Iatrophobia, fear of doctors. Though doctors and dentists are the most common objects of fear, some people are afraid of nurses, lab techs, and others in the medical field.Mysophobia, fear of germsHemophobia, fear of bloodThanatophobia, fear of deathHypochondriasis,  fear that existing physical symptoms may be the result of an undiagnosed diseaseNosophobia, fear of developing a specific disease such as cancer or diabetesClaustrophobia, fear of enclosed spaces. If you suffer from claustrophobia,  you might dread CT scans, MRIs and other tests that require confinement.Trypanophobia (needle phobia), fear of needles Nosocomephobia or Normal Anxiety Since its pretty normal to feel nervous before visiting a hospital, it can be difficult to tell whether your symptoms constitute a full-blown phobia. Only a qualified mental health professional can make this determination. In general, however, someone with nosocomephobia may simply refuse to go to or enter a hospital, even in the case of major life-threatening conditions or events. In addition, theyll realize the fear is irrational, but feel quite powerless to overcome it. Other signs that may signify a fear of hospitals include: Obsessive worryingA full-blown panic attack at the sight or thought of a hospitalFeeling nauseatedElevated heart rateShallow and rapid breathingExcessive sweatingAvoidance behavior or refusing to go to the hospitalFeelings of uncontrollable anxiety