Fear of radiation and X-rays (radiophobia)

Radiophobia is a fear of radiation, including the X-rays and scans used in medicine. It can lead people to turn down dental X-rays or hospital scans, worry about phone masts and household devices, or feel strong alarm at news about nuclear power. Questions about whether a scan is really needed are reasonable, and a GP or the clinician ordering it can talk through the reasons.

About this phobia

Unlike many rare phobia names, radiophobia does turn up in medical and public health writing, often to describe anxiety about radiation that is out of proportion to the actual risk. It has been discussed in relation to patients avoiding imaging and to public reactions after nuclear accidents. The term covers both a personal fear and wider public worry.

What it feels like

• Dread or refusal when a doctor or dentist suggests an X-ray or scan
• Keeping a careful distance from microwaves, phones or airport scanners
• Strong anxiety when nuclear power or radiation is in the news

Explore more unusual fears in the rare phobias A to Z, or browse the common phobias.

Common questions

Should I refuse an X-ray if I am scared of radiation?

It is fine to ask why a scan is needed and whether there are alternatives. Turning down imaging that a doctor feels is important can mean a problem is missed, so it is worth talking it through with them or your GP before deciding. Working on the fear itself can make those conversations easier.

How can you help?

I use hypnotherapy and NLP to change how your mind responds to the thing you fear, so the old alarm stops going off. Sessions are one to one over Zoom, and you get a recording of the hypnosis to listen to afterwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice a real difference after one 90 minute session. If the fear goes back a long way, three sessions gives us room to make the change stick.

Ready to start?

Book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk through your fear, or take the free suitability test first.

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