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3. Phagophobia
Phagophobia is the fear of swallowing.
courtesy of: www.phununet.com
A person’s fear of swallowing usually initiates an extreme gag reflex that commonly makes swallowing medicine or solid food nearly impossible. Their throat muscles will flex and spasm, closing the throat and expelling any unwanted items out of the mouth. In some cases, phagophobia can actually lead to weight loss and malnutrition.
An untreated fear of swallowing may result in a fear of certain foods or a fear of vomiting, leading to more severe complications that could cause serious damage to a person’s social life and mental health.