Pellagrophobia: The Fear of Pellagro

Pellagrophobia is the abnormal and persistent fear of Pellagra.  Pellagra is a dietary disease caused by a niacin or vitamin B3 deficiency.  It is characterized by diarrhea, dermatitis and dementia.  It can be fatal if left untreated. 

Primary Pellagra is caused by an inadequate amount of niacin in the diet.  This usually occurs in poverty stricken areas.  Secondary Pellagra is caused by something preventing the absorption and processing of niacin.  This can be caused by chronic alcoholism, prolonged diarrhea, gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis, liver cirrhosis, carcinoid tumors, Hartnup disease and certain drugs.

A phobia is a strong, persistent fear of situations, objects, activities or persons.  The main symptom is an excessive and unreasonable desire to avoid the feared subject. Other phobia symptoms include shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, sweating, nausea, and an overall feeling of dread.  Phobias are the most common form of anxiety disorders.

Do you suffer from Pellagrophobia?  Please share your story.  How was it triggered and how does it affect your life?

Source:

Vanessa Ngan, Pellagra, DermNet NZ