Emetophobia

OCD Subtype

What is Emetophobia (fear of vomiting)?

Emetophobia can appear as a presentation of OCD and one we see often at CalmOCD. Those suffering with emetophobia have an immense fear of vomiting. These fears can be unique depending on the person; however, mostly all do compulsive behaviors to reduce their anxiety. If lots of compulsions are performed this subtype can become very severe where people are eating a limited diet, no longer attending work or school, or even leaving the home. Sometimes these individuals are triggered by a certain event around vomiting while others are not able to identify any reason this has become a trigger. In OCD, there is often no significant reason the brain latches on and chooses a certain fear which we see in those suffering from emetophobia.

Emetophobia

Common Obsessions

Fear of food being contaminated
Fear of food being spoiled or expired
Fear of how vomiting will feel
Fear of being judged by others if they vomit in public
Fear of not being able to stop vomiting
Fear of not being able to handle being sick

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Emetophobia

Common Compulsions

Avoiding anyone that may be sick
Avoiding colors like green and brown that remind them of vomit
Taking anti-nausea medication
Spitting or swallowing excessively
Checking body for symptoms
Drinking water
Reassuring self, they are not sick and will not vomit
Asking for reassurance from others they are not sick
Reading expiration dates closely
Reading ingredients of foods
Only eating certain types of foods
Eating slowly or not finishing meal fully
Doing different rituals such as counting or walking a certain way to ensure safety (magical thinking)
Problem solving ways to leave a place if they get sick
Only staying places for a short time or sitting by the exit so they can leave
Having others eat food first before to check it is safe