Claustrophobia is an intense fear of being trapped in small or enclosed spaces. Someone with claustrophobia might feel panicked in an elevator, a crowded closet, or even a car during heavy traffic. Their heart races, they might start sweating, and they feel an overwhelming need to escape to somewhere open and free.

This fear goes beyond normal discomfort. Most people don't love being squeezed into tight spaces, but someone with claustrophobia experiences real terror. They might avoid subways, refuse to use elevators, or feel anxious even thinking about getting an MRI scan (which involves lying still inside a narrow tube).

Claustrophobia is one of the most common fears people experience. It can make everyday situations difficult: imagine being terrified every time you need to ride an elevator in a tall building, or avoiding airplane trips because the cabin feels too confining.

People often confuse claustrophobia with agoraphobia, but they are different. Claustrophobia is a fear of enclosed spaces, while agoraphobia is a fear of open or public spaces where escape might be difficult. Understanding these different fears can help people navigate the world more comfortably.