Telephonophobia

So, I read this today...

Telephonophobia.....Defined as "a persistent, abnormal, and unwarranted fear of telephones", each year this surprisingly common phobia causes countless people needless distress.

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 telephonophobia in their own way and may have different symptoms........

Apparently, I am not the only freak in the world, if there is medical recognition for it. And, the symptoms?? Yea, I've pretty much experienced all of these.

Of all the afflictions and phobias, why this? I could deal with being afraid of heights, or water, or the #13, or birds, or any number of other things. But, why am I so traumatized when I need to use the phone?

Last week, I had to make several uncomfortable phone calls in a row and by the time I was done, my hands were shaking so bad, I could hardly write. Seriously.

It's odd, because answering the phone when it rings is not so bad. But, having to dial and wait while it rings and then speak when the person answers....I'm nervous just thinking about it.

Yea, I'm odd.