[center]Thermophobia - Fear of heat, Phobia of heat, Heat phobia, Heat fear.

Thermophobia is an intense fear of heat including hot weather and hot objects. Sufferers from thermophobia experience anxiety even though they realize their fear is irrational. To avoid heat, they may live in a cold climate, wear light clothing, stay indoors on warm days, and avoid hot water and hot foods.

"Thermophobia" is derived from the Greek "therme" (heat) and "phobos" (fear). This same Greek word has given us many English words, such as "thermometer" (a device for measuring temperature) and "thermostat" (a device for regulating temperature).

The opposite of thermophobia is cryophobia, fear of the cold.

Known by a number of names - Thermophobia and Fear of heat being the most common - the problem often significantly impacts the quality of life. It can cause panic attacks and keep people apart from loved ones and business associates. Symptoms typically include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, sweating, nausea, and overall feelings of dread, although everyone experiences Thermophobia in their own way and may have different symptoms.

Though a variety of powerful drugs are often prescribed for Thermophobia, side effects and/or withdrawal symptoms can be severe. Also, drugs do not "cure" Thermophobia or any other phobia. At best they temporarily suppress the symptoms artificially and chemically.[/center]

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