Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder. People who develop this disorder have uncontrollable thoughts and fears (obsessions). These obsessions cause repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that the person uses in an effort to stop the obsessions. People with this disorder may realize that their obsessions are unreasonable, and they may try to stop their compulsive behavior. Stopping the compulsive behavior increases anxiety and distress, driving the person to resume performing the behavior.
What Causes Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Three theories have been developed to explain the cause of OCD. These include:
• Biological causes—OCD may be caused by genetic abnormalities. People with OCD often have a close relative that has the disorder.
• Environmental causes—OCD may develop as a result of behaviors that have been learned over time.
• Insufficient levels of serotonin—OCD may occur if levels of serotonin in your brain decrease. Serotonin is a chemical that can help you regulate emotions.
What Are the Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Although obsessive and compulsive symptoms are different for each person, there are some common obsessive thoughts. Examples of obsessive thoughts include:
• a fear of germs, illness, or disease
• a fear of hurting oneself or others
• violent thoughts of a sexual nature
• a fear that you will lose things that are important to you
• a focus on preciseness and order
• a focus on superstitions
• strict devotion to religious beliefs
Compulsions are behaviors and while behavior will vary for each person with OCD, there are some common compulsions. These include:
• checking and rechecking tasks that have already been completed
• continually calling friends and family to see if they are safe
• counting or repeating words
• excessive cleaning or washing
• ordering things
• excessive praying
• accumulating trash that has no value or worth
How Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Diagnosed?
Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Drugs and Medication
Typically, your doctor will prescribe medications to help reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs are often the first medications prescribed for this disorder. Examples of SSRIs include:
• citalopram
• fluoxetine
• fluvoxamine
• paroxetine
• sertraline
If these medications are not effective, your doctor may try other medications, including tricyclic antidepressants.
Therapy
Your doctor may also recommend therapy to help you learn to cope with your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to reduce obsessions and compulsions in patients with OCD. When combined with medication, CBT can enhance treatment success.
Long-Term Outlook
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