If you are in this article, you probably have omphalophobia or are curious to know about this specific phobia.

Omphalophobia is a specific phobia - that is, extreme, persistent fear that focuses on one thing. In this case, to the navel.

As with other specific phobias, people may be aware that it is not reasonable, but they can not control it. Anxiety increases simply by thinking about the navel, and even physical symptoms may appear.

Can the navel be opened? Jo. The navel is the remnant of the umbilical cord. Many navels look like they have a knot that can be untied, but no - it can't be opened.

Not everyone is a fan of the navel. Maybe you do not like to see or touch them, others or yours. Or maybe you wonder if your navel is normal or why you have it protruding. But none of these things indicate phobia, but simply personal preference.

On the other hand, there are some signs that you may have omphalophobia:

- Fear the thought of seeing a navel.
- Try to get away from them. avoid swimming pools, beaches and rooms and undress.
- You have anxiety when you see a navel.
- An umbilical cord provokes a desire to leave.
- You can not touch your navel or that of other people.
- You have anxiety when someone touches the navel.

Physical symptoms of phobias may include:

- dry mouth
- tremors
- sweat
- shortness
of breath - nausea, vomiting
- chest tightness
- rapid heartbeat

Possible causes of omphalophobia

Fear is a normal response to risk. When you are in danger, fear triggers a reaction that can save you. A phobia goes beyond that. Phobia is an excessive or unreasonable fear that causes problems in your life.

Phobias can develop after a bad experience. When this happens, it is called experimental-specific phobia. However a bad experience is not necessary to have a phobia. This is called specific non-experimental phobia.

Genetic, developmental, and environmental factors may play a role in the development of phobias. Fear of the navel is unreasonable, so you may not be able to determine the exact cause. Yet this phobia is successfully treatable .

Sources: Psych Times, Healthline