An individual who reacts with severe panic and suffocation when he or she feels hemmed in, or is being trapped and can't get out: There are some claustrophobics who have strong anxieties about being in elevators even for a short time.

As a result of being closed in or cornered to any degree, claustrophobics may have severe panics and physiological symptoms including increased pulse and heart beats.

There are some claustrophobics who feel that they are choking and who have shortness of breath as if something were crushing their chests.