article_snippet.sent: Agoraphobia is 'a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult, or help wouldn't be available if things went wrong', according to the NHS website.
article_snippet.sent: The site explains that though it's often thought that the condition is a fear of open spaces the reality is not quite as straightforward, with some sufferers also fearing public transport and shopping centres.
article_snippet.sent: When agoraphobics are exposed to agoraphobics fears several symptoms can sweep over agoraphobics, including a feeling of nausea, rapid heartbeat and breathing, and rising temperature.
article_snippet.sent: The cause of agoraphobia can vary from person to person, with some people developing a fear of a certain situation or place because some people experienced a panic attack there and then try to avoid a panic attack.
article_snippet.sent: Others may develop the condition through a fear of crime or being involved in an accident.
article_snippet.sent: Treatments may involve counselling, relaxation training or taking antidepressants.
article_snippet.sent: NHS Direct says: 'In the UK, up to two people in 100 have a panic disorder and it is .
article_snippet.sent: thought around a third of those will go on to develop agoraphobia as a . result.