Do I Have Claustrophobia? Anxiety and Its Impact on Health

Do I have claustrophobia?

Hello, last year around mid-year, I experienced an exacerbation of sinusitis, which caused breathing difficulties.
Before consulting a specialist, this led to a series of symptoms including insomnia, chest tightness, and trembling.
The most frightening experience was waking up suddenly in the middle of the night, feeling unable to breathe.
Initially, I thought there might be other underlying health issues aside from sinusitis, so I first consulted a family medicine doctor.
However, the family physician clearly informed me that he believed my symptoms were related to anxiety.
At that moment, I was convinced that all my emotional instability was connected to the side effects of sinusitis, and I resolved to seek a specialist promptly.

My otolaryngologist assessed that my nasal congestion was severe and had affected my breathing, deciding to perform surgery to drain the pus.
However, during my first visit to the operating room, the necessary local anesthesia triggered a severe panic response, and my only sensation was that I couldn't breathe and was about to die.
Due to the overwhelming panic, the first surgery was aborted, and during the second attempt, the doctor had to switch to general anesthesia to proceed successfully.
Given these unusual circumstances, I am reaching out for your opinion.
In your experience, do you think I may have a mental health condition? Is claustrophobia considered a type of mental illness?
Recently, I applied for critical illness insurance, and it is currently under review.
I suddenly recalled that I had these two medical incidents in the past year, and I am concerned that both the family medicine doctor and the otolaryngologist may have documented or confirmed mental health issues in my medical records, which could affect my insurance application and potentially violate the principle of utmost good faith.
Therefore, I would like to ask you whether my medical situation could indeed have an impact and whether I should disclose this information.
After all, I have not seen a professional psychiatrist, and there is no formal diagnosis in my medical records.
Wishing you good health.

violet, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/01/06

Dr. Li Junren reply Psychiatry

Hello, the situation you described may be indicative of anxiety and panic attacks.
Simple anxiety and panic, if they occur only under physiological or psychological stress (for example, in your case, due to sinusitis affecting breathing and fear of surgery), can be considered a normal response of the body.
Generally, these symptoms tend to subside once the stress is alleviated and can be improved through relaxation techniques.
However, if anxiety and panic occur repeatedly and begin to affect your daily life, work, and interpersonal relationships, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder or panic disorder.
Appropriate medication, psychotherapy, and relaxation training can effectively manage the condition.
Both anxiety disorders and panic disorders are not classified as major illnesses and typically do not affect insurance contracts or benefits.
If you want to confirm whether you have such issues, you can seek evaluation and diagnosis from a psychiatrist at a hospital.

Reply Date: 2003/01/06

More Info

Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced significant anxiety, particularly in relation to your health and medical procedures. Your symptoms, including insomnia, chest tightness, and panic during medical interventions, suggest that you may be dealing with anxiety disorders, which can manifest in various ways, including panic attacks and possibly claustrophobia.

Claustrophobia, specifically, is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of enclosed spaces. This fear can lead to panic attacks, which may include symptoms such as shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and feelings of impending doom, similar to what you experienced during your surgery. It is important to note that while claustrophobia is classified as a specific phobia, it is indeed a recognized mental health condition.

Your experience of feeling unable to breathe during the local anesthesia procedure indicates a heightened state of anxiety, which can be exacerbated by the context of being in a medical environment where you feel vulnerable. This reaction is not uncommon among individuals with anxiety disorders, especially those who have had previous traumatic experiences related to health or medical treatments.

Regarding your concerns about insurance and the potential impact of your medical history on your application, it is crucial to approach this matter with honesty. While you have not been formally diagnosed by a psychiatrist, the documentation from your general practitioner and ENT specialist may indicate anxiety-related symptoms. Insurance companies typically require full disclosure of medical history, and failing to provide accurate information could lead to complications in your coverage or claims in the future.

However, it is also essential to understand that experiencing anxiety or panic attacks does not necessarily mean you have a chronic mental illness. Many individuals experience anxiety in response to specific situations, and with appropriate treatment, including therapy and possibly medication, these symptoms can be managed effectively.

If you are concerned about your mental health, it may be beneficial to seek an evaluation from a mental health professional. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and help determine whether you meet the criteria for any anxiety disorders, including claustrophobia. Treatment options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be particularly effective for anxiety disorders and can help you develop coping strategies for managing your symptoms.

In summary, while your experiences suggest that you may be dealing with anxiety, including possible claustrophobia, it is essential to consult with a mental health professional for a formal evaluation. Being honest with your insurance provider about your medical history is also important, as it ensures that you are covered appropriately and can avoid potential issues in the future. Taking proactive steps to address your anxiety can lead to improved well-being and a better quality of life.

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