OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

 Basic information

description

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves having obsessions and/or compulsions that are unwanted and interfere with one's life. Obsessions are recurrent, intrusive thoughts or images. Compulsions are repetitive, ritualistic behaviors. Most people with OCD realize that these thoughts or behaviors are not rational, but are unable to stop them. OCD affects both males and females and symptoms often begin in ages 10 to 24.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Obsessions that recur. Trying to ignore or resist them is unsuccessful. Obsessions can include:
  • Fears of infection (from germs, dirt, etc.) and fear of serious illness.
  • Doubts (Is the door shut/locked? Is the iron on?).
  • Excessive orderliness or symmetry.
  • Fear that one's actions hurt other people or cause bad thing to happen.
  • Inappropriate sexual and aggressive thoughts.
• Compulsions are repetitive, purposeful behaviors to try to suppress the anxiety caused by obsessions. Compulsions can include:
  • Asking for assurances.
  • Avoiding places or actions.
  • Doubts and checking (ovens, locks, doors, lights).
  • Excessive washing (hands or bathing).
  • Hoarding possessions.
  • Repeating behaviors such as dressing rituals.
  • Counting/cleaning/ordering/arranging.

causes

The exact cause is unknown. Low levels of a brain chemical, serotonin, appear to play a role. Serotonin carries messages from one brain cell to another. Genetics or other factors may also play a role.

risk increases with

• Family history of the disorder.
• Pregnancy and postpartum period.
• Stressful life events may worsen symptoms.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific prevention methods known.

expected outcomes

Outcome varies for each person. Symptoms can be mild or moderate to severe and disabling. Symptoms may come and go or be chronic. Effective and specific therapy is available that can help control symptoms.

possible complications

• House-bound and limited lifestyle.
• Depression, anxiety, panic episodes, substance abuse problems, and suicidal feelings.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider may do a physical exam and will ask questions about the symptoms. No medical tests can diagnose OCD. A patient's description of the behavior offers the best clues to diagnosis. You may be asked if symptoms take up more than 1 hour a day; cause distress; and interfere with your work, personal relationships, or daily functioning.
• Treatment may include psychotherapy (counseling), drugs, and education for both patient and family. Treatment can help relieve symptoms, improve functioning, reduce stress, and improve quality of life.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help change thoughts and behaviors. One type of CBT is "exposure and response prevention." CBT may be combined with drugs to achieve the best results.
• Family support is important during treatment.
• Group therapy may be helpful for some patients.
• Hospital care or other inpatient care may be recommended for severe symptoms.
• To learn more: Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation, PO Box 961029, Boston, MA 02196; (617) 973-5801 (not toll free); website: www.ocfoundation.org.

medications

• Antidepressants are often prescribed. They are effective, but benefits may not be seen for 3 weeks or up to 12 weeks. Dosages may be adjusted or other drugs may be tried if one type is not effective, or a drug's side effects are not tolerable.
• Antianxiety or tranquilizer drugs may be prescribed.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Symptoms continue or worsen during treatment.
• Drugs used in treatment produce side effects.

Special Notes: