Get to know cynophobia, the excessive fear of dogs

Many people keep dogs because they consider them to be man's best friends. Unfortunately, not everyone thinks that dogs are smart and cute animals. Yes, those who are very afraid of dogs are called cynophobia. Are you one of those people who are afraid of dogs? Psst, it's possible that you are experiencing this disorder.

Covering cynophobia, excessive fear of dogs

Cynophobia comes from the language which is Greek, viz cyno and phobia which is defined as a phobia or fear of dogs. This phobia is common and creates a feeling of being threatened or uncomfortable when meeting a dog. In fact, fear can arise just by imagining a dog.

This condition is included in a specific mental disorder because it causes excessive fear and anxiety that can interfere with daily activities.

Why is there anyone who is so afraid of dogs?

Like most other animal phobias, such as spiders or snakes, cynophobia is most often caused by negative experiences with dogs. Usually this experience usually occurs when children.

However, this condition can also develop from the influence of parents or adults who say that the dog is fierce, scary, or likes to bite. These words can build up the child's imagination, leading to the mistake that dogs are dangerous animals.

What are the symptoms of cynophobia?

The symptoms of cynophobia vary, so everyone can react differently. However, this phobia can cause physical, emotional, or both reactions. Physical signs of cynophobia include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Heart rate faster
• Chest pain or tightness
• Body shaking and chills
• Stomach ache
• Headache or feel lightheaded
• Keep sweating

Emotional symptoms of cynophobia include:

• Experiencing panic or anxiety attacks
• Losing control, such as crying, screaming, or throwing a tantrum
• Feeling helpless or weak
• Feelings of passing out or going to die
• Anxious to escape from that situation

Who are the people who are at risk for this condition?

This phobia can develop gradually over time. You can't know exactly when fear arises. However, this condition is at risk for people who have or feel the following:

• Have had an attack, whether it was being chased or being bitten by a dog. This traumatic experience could be the cause of cynophobia.
• You have a family member who has cynophobia. it is possible that the fear can become a picture and continue to appear in your brain so that you also feel afraid.
• People who are temperamental and very sensitive are at high risk of developing cynophobia.
• Seeing or hearing of negative experiences with dogs. For example, watching television news stories about dog attacks on children, you will respond with fear, which increases the risk of cynophobia.

Possible complications from cynophobia

Apart from interfering with activities, this condition may also get worse and cause complications. Dogs are popular as pets, almost impossible for you to avoid.

If you experience frequent symptoms of cynophobia, it can lead to depression and anxiety disorders. Some people even have social phobia or are afraid to leave the house.

How can you overcome excessive dog fear?

Actually, not all phobias need doctor's care. This will depend on the severity of your symptoms. You can still avoid roads or areas with lots of dogs. However, if the symptoms are really serious and bother you a lot then further treatment is needed, such as:

Attending cognitive behavioral therapy

This therapy helps patients manage and deal with fear. Therapy can be done directly by involving the dog or just imagining the patient himself when dealing with the dog, either through conversation or looking at pictures of dogs.

Take the medication your doctor prescribes

In addition to therapy, the patient may need short-term medication to relieve symptoms. The type of medication that is usually used is beta blockers to block adrenaline so that blood pressure, shaking, and pulse rate can be overcome. Including sedatives to reduce patient anxiety.