How is algophobia diagnosed?

How is algophobia diagnosed?

Algophobia is difficult to diagnose, especially in people with chronic pain syndromes. Your healthcare provider will try to distinguish your fear of pain from the actual pain you're experiencing. It’s important to provide as much detail as you can about your pain. How much does it hurt? How long does the pain last? And, how often do you experience the pain? Your provider will also ask about your emotions surrounding pain.

Your healthcare provider may use a test called the Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale (PASS) to assess the severity of your algophobia. The test asks you to rate your responses to statements such as, “I can’t think straight when in pain” or “Pain makes me nauseous.” The rating scale goes from 0 (never) to 5 (always). Other questionnaires can evaluate your avoidance level or the presence of kinesophobia.

Your healthcare provider may diagnose you with algophobia if you:

• Avoid activities or situations that you think could cause pain.
• Develop excessive fear or anxiety at the thought of pain.
• Experience a fear of pain for 6 months or longer.
• Have a reduced quality of life due to your fear of pain.