Aglophobia (Fear Of Physical Pain): Causes, Symptoms, Complications, And Treatment

Aglophobia is a psychological disorder that can be described as a fear of physical pain. The origin of the word Aglophobia came from the Greek word “agora” which means pain and Phobos which means fear. It is not necessary that only adults can be afraid, children are also prone to mental disorders.

It's perfectly okay to worry during stressful times. But there are many people who get anxious a lot every single day, even if there is nothing to worry about. When such a situation stays with them for as long as 6 months then it is termed as an anxiety disorder. There are so many people who are not even aware of this ongoing disorder. So they miss out on treatments and lead a very difficult life. In this kind of situation, they may not be able to find out the actual reason for their worry.

Research has shown that many people often get extremely worried about normal things like bills, relationships, or health. This can further adversely affect their sleep cycle and thought process.

When it won’t stop then you may feel irritated due to poor sleep or anxiety. In fact, this may create a situation where you stop enjoying the things you once loved to enjoy. Severe cases may seriously hamper your regular schedule and even relationships.

It mainly develops when panic attacks become complicated. People suffering from Aglophobia avoid situations that can give them fear or sensation of pain. Old people are the most affected by the fear of getting hurt. However, it does not necessarily mean that Algophobia develops at old age. Like other phobias, it can happen at any point in your lifetime.

There are 2 major causes of Aglophobia:

1. Environment:

   Specific environment, situation, or condition you are living in can cause Aglophobia. People suffering from chronic pain avoid getting into situations where the physical pain is involved. They possibly create a protective shield around themselves. They stop taking up the activities that can cause pain or worsen their pain.

2. Genetics:

   Most people develop this phobia because their family members have it. They inherit the fear from their family and continue acting like what they have witnessed so far.

There is no specific age for developing this phobia. But mostly, it is found in older people who are suffering from chronic pain. The common types of chronic pains are:

• Psychogenic pain
• Back pain or arthritis
• Pain caused by infections or autoimmune disorders
• Pain caused by damaged nerves
• Headaches
• Cancer-related pains

Following are the symptoms linked with Aglophobia:

• Exaggeration:

  People with Aglophobia consider pain as a threat. For example, regular activities like running. If they fall while running and break their leg somehow then that pain could give them a feeling of being handicapped forever.

• Hypervigilance:

  In this Aglophobic patient anticipate pain instead of experiencing it. They see the potential of pain even in a simple scenario.

• Fear-avoidance:

  In this scenario, Algophobic patients avoid getting into situations where there is a possibility of getting hurt. In fact, there are some people who develop kinesophobia. It means fear of pain due to movement. This further prevents them from healing. Such avoidance can make them disabled.

  People suffering from Aglophobia may get sudden panic attacks due to the fear of getting hurt. They might witness the following symptoms:

  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Headaches
  • Chills
  • Excessive sweating
  • Indigestion
  • Trembling

It is extremely difficult to diagnose Algophobia in people with chronic pain syndromes. Your doctor will differentiate between your fear of pain and the pain you are actually experiencing. Hence, it is important to give as many details as you can about your pain. Like, tell your doctor how much pain you are experiencing? How long has the pain lasted? Or how often you have experienced the pain etc. Be prepared for some tests also. You might be tested on a pain anxiety symptom scale. This will help in examining the severity of Aglophobia. Your doctor will diagnose you with Algophobia, if:

• You don’t take up the activities you think could hurt you or worsen your pain.
• You develop fear with a thought of pain.
• You develop a fear of pain that lasts for more than 6 months.
• You stop enjoying your regular activities due to fear of pain.

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent Aglophobia. But there are some measures that can reduce the risk of Aglophobia.

• Avoid the intake of caffeine, alcohol, or drugs that can trigger panic attacks.
• Follow a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, taking a balanced diet, and sleeping properly.
• Share your fears, worries, and anxieties with your family and friends.
• Consult your doctor if something is bothering you.

Call the doctor, if:

• You experience a rise in your panic attacks.
• You are facing difficulty in leading a healthy and happy life.

Summary: Aglophobia is a psychological disorder that can be described as a fear of pain. Aglophobia is a sense of fear one feels when coming near or thinking about getting hurt or physical pain in general. It is not necessary that only adults can be afraid, but children are also prone to mental disorders. Aglophobia works on the basis of irrational logic and overpowering thoughts about particular subjects like pain. One can come out of this very easily with the help of therapy sessions and medication if treated on time.