What is the difference between ommetaphobia and ommatophobia?

Not medical advice: There is no difference.

Ommetaphobia is also known as Ommatophobia that came from the Greek word omma which means "eye" and is an exaggerated or irrational fear of the eyes.

Ommetaphobia develops when someone experiences a traumatic event that involves the eyes. It is considered a social phobia rather than an object phobia since it involves social situations such as looking into someone's eyes.

Symptoms may vary depending on how severe the phobia is. Some people, when confronted with this fear may begin to perspire, feel slightly uncomfortable, nauseated and may experience crippling anxiety and/or panic attacks.

Treatment involves behavioral psychotherapy and medications may be needed if it already affects the quality of life.

In eye buzz, a Fort Lee, NJ man has filed a lawsuit against CVS Pharmacy, Inc., alleging that the eye drops from its Edgewater store "disabled and disfigured" him. Read more at NorthJersey.com.

Find 10 tips to fight your fears at NHS.uk - Overcoming Fears.