What is Microphobia?

Microphobia is defined as a persistent, irrational fear of small, invisible objects such as germs and/or microbes. Sometimes referred to as mycrophobia, this word comes from the Greek "micros", meaning germs and "phobos" meaning fear.

People affected by this phobia may also suffer with Tapinophobia or the fear of being contagious. Apparently, the individual fears that they have been infected by germs and are therefore contagious.

What Causes Microphobia?

As with all phobias, the person suffering from Microphobia has experienced an actual trauma. That experience is then associated with microbes, germs and with being contagious. Perhaps the microphobic person contracted one of the routine childhood illnesses, was indeed contagious and was isolated from others for a period of time. The individual affected by Microphobia could have witnessed someone else respond in a negative manner and simply began to imitate that response.

Whatever the cause, the microphobic person can experience anxiety and emotional turmoil that can be completely disruptive of their daily functioning.

What Are the Symptoms of Microphobia?

The symptoms of Microphobia are individual and will vary. Some people, when confronted with their fear, may feel uncomfortable, nauseated or begin to perspire. At the opposite end of the spectrum, other people are so severely compromised by this phobia, that they experience anxiety and/or panic attacks.

Other symptoms of Microphobia can include:

• A Dry Mouth
• Gasping or Shortness of Breath
• Overall Trembling
• Increased Heartbeat
• Feeling Out of Control
• Feeling Trapped and Unable to Escape
• Overwhelming Feeling of Disaster

How Is Microphobia Diagnosed?

The vast majority of cases of Microphobia are self-diagnosed. The individual realizes that their fear is irrational and is severely compromising their daily functioning.

The microphobic person may discuss their phobia with the doctor. Rarely will the doctor diagnosis Microphobia based on that initial discussion. More routinely, the doctor, after ruling out any physical reasons for the phobia, will refer the person to a mental health professional for further assessment and evaluation.

How is Microphobia Treated?

When the fear of small objects, such as germs, becomes so intense as to disrupt a person's daily functioning, there are a number of different ways to treat Microphobia. These include:

• Talking to the primary physician who can refer the person to a therapist who specializes in the treatment of phobias.
• Traditional "talk" therapy that will assist the person in learning to identify and control their phobia.
• Self-help techniques.
• Support groups with other people coping with this phobia.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Desensitization Therapy.
• Relaxation Techniques.
• In extreme cases of Microphobia, anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed.

Microphobia is an intense, irrational fear of small objects such as germs or microbes. Sometimes that fear can become so overwhelming as to completely disrupt the person's ability to maintain a daily routine. Unchecked, Microphobia can become a debilitating condition that touches every aspect of a person's life.