Emetophobia

Emetophobia is an anxiety disorder characterised by an intense and persistent fear of vomiting, feeling nauseous, or witnessing others vomit.

It often leads to heightened bodily vigilance, avoidance of certain foods, places, people, or situations, and significant disruption to daily life. Individuals may experience chronic anxiety, panic symptoms, gastrointestinal distress, agoraphobia and compulsive safety behaviours intended to prevent nausea or sickness.

This condition is not a digestive problem, but a fear-response disorder. The ongoing cycle of monitoring sensations, avoiding perceived risks, and seeking reassurance keeps the nervous system in a heightened state of threat. Over time, this reinforces anxiety pathways and strengthens the fear response, even in the absence of real danger.

Emetophobia can affect work, relationships, travel, eating habits, and overall wellbeing. Without appropriate recovery-based intervention, it often becomes increasingly restrictive, leading individuals to organise their lives around preventing feared sensations rather than living freely and confidently.