When swallowing causes panic

Swallowing fear - phagophobia

Phagophobia or swallowing anxiety is the fear of swallowing. This is usually accompanied by a fear of choking (choking phobia) and should not be confused with globus hystericus or anorexia nervosa. In addition to the fear of choking on food, there may also be a fear of swallowing saliva.

Phagophobia is classified as a specific phobia (ICD: F40.2) and is distinguished from agoraphobia, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. The disorder is also mentioned in the DSM-5.

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