Hemophobia The Fear of Blood

What is Hemophobia?

Hemophobia is an anxiety disorder in which one suffers an intense fear of blood or injection. This fear is not only triggers on the sight of blood but also when thinking or imagining about blood related incidents. It is derived from Greek words "haima" which means blood and "phobia" meaning fear. This phobia can cause severe anxiety which might result in distinct physical reactions that are not found in other phobias.

What cause this?

Hemophobia has been known to be triggered by Thantophobia, the fear of injury or death. Chances are if you have Hemophobia, you are likely to suffer from Thantophobia as well. This excessive fear is mainly influenced by environmental factors surrounding that individual, such as trauma during childhood or horrific memory from recent events. Interestingly, the genetic factor does contribute to this type of anxiety disorder.

People who suffer from Hemophobia normally experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Stomach aches
- Dried mouth
- Nervous
- Nauseous
- Dizzy and Lightheaded
- Fear of dying
- Increase in heart rate
- Decrease in blood pressure

How does a Hemophobic react when it is triggered?

When a Hemophobic person sees or thinks of blood, she would experience a sudden dilation in the blood vessels, which causes the blood pressure to drop rapidly leading her to faint. This reaction is similar to a person who is fainted because she just heard family emergency.

Hemophobia Treatment Options.

Since Hemophobia is a physiological disorder, the most effective way to deal with this is by training our mind to manage the over-stimulated senses. Seek help from a good psychiatrist that can point your to the right therapy.

Optionally you could reduce the physical effects of this anxiety disorder by employing the vasovagal syncope techniques such as bending your legs or raising your hands. These techniques are helpful because by straining those muscles in your body, it forces your blood vessels to elevate your blood pressure. Thus it will reduce your risk of fainting.