Agoraphobia is a fear of being in situations where escape will be difficult or help will not come if something goes wrong/physical symptoms of anxiety develop. The fear is greater than would be expected in a person without agoraphobia and in situations typically deemed safe. Feared situations include leaving the house alone, being in open space, using public transportation, or being in crowded places like malls or concerts. Agoraphobia can develop as a complication of panic disorder or can occur on its own. Symptoms like increased heart rate, change in breathing, sweating, GI distress, chest pain or pressure, and vision changes present when a person with agoraphobia is in a feared situation or believes they will enter a feared situation. Avoidance of any situation that could trigger fear is common and can limit functioning.
