Opiophobia - this is the scientific name for the fear of visiting doctors. It happens that the patient experiences panic in front of dentists, gynecologists and other specialists. But you can fight this.
Signs of opiophobia
Heart palpitations, dizziness, nausea, trembling knees, incoherent speech, confusion, shortness of breath are all indicators of a fear of going to medical facilities. The horror caused by doctors can even lead to loss of consciousness.
Fear of blood is another type of opiophobia. And the most common fear is visiting dentists. Although painless dental treatment is now practiced, many still experience nausea and dizziness before visiting a health facility.
Some are worried that they may be diagnosed with an incurable disease, while others find it difficult to tolerate the smell of drugs and the hospital atmosphere.
Fear of doctors: how to cope
There are some practical tips to help you overcome your fear:
1. Try to channel your thoughts in a positive direction. Think of something good.
2. Understand that the doctor's goal is to help you.
3. It is better to visit doctors in the early stages of the disease. Do not delay the treatment process.
4. You can take a player or a book with you, this will help you distract from frightening thoughts.
5. Ask your doctor questions that interest you.
In some people, opiophobia can manifest itself as early as childhood. The reason is often a bad attitude, as well as the negligence of doctors.
The visits to the doctor are imprinted in the memory, so the child is afraid every time. In this case, you should conduct a conversation with him, tell us about how the examination will take place.
If your child is going to have a vaccine or a blood test, tell them that it is not as painful as it seems. In any case, you must accompany the child to the hospital. Don't leave him alone with fear.
In some clinics, especially dental clinics, to combat opiophobia, they turn on relaxing music in the office, and also suggest wearing special video glasses, making the treatment process pleasant and not at all scary.
You can independently choose a clinic with a good attitude towards patients. If the fear of doctors haunts you, you cannot cope with the fear on your own, you can consult a psychologist. He will help in the fight against phobias and pick up sedatives. After a few sessions of psychotherapy, it will become easier for you to endure your visits to doctors.
It should be remembered that the panic fear of doctors and untimely treatment can contribute to the fact that the disease becomes chronic.
