About this topic
Obsessive compulsive disorder is also known as OCD. If you have OCD, you may have thoughts that go through your head over and over. Other times, OCD causes you to feel like you need to do certain rituals or routines over and over. ‚
The upsetting thoughts that get in the way of your normal life are called obsessions. They cause you to feel tense or on edge. The behaviors or things you do to try and control the thoughts are called compulsions. Some people are obsessed with germs and think about them all the time. Because of this, they feel like they must wash their hands over and over. Others may be obsessed with protecting their loved ones. They believe that by doing things in a certain order or touching things in a certain order, their loved ones will be safe. There are many kinds of obsessive thoughts and rituals that people do to try and cope with the thoughts. ‚
What are the causes?
Doctors do not know exactly what causes OCD. You are more likely to have it if a family member also has OCD. Stress or a traumatic event can make this condition more likely to happen. Brain injury, like from a stroke, or a chemical imbalance in the brain can be a cause. ‚
What are the main signs?
Obsessions: People with OCD have thoughts that they cannot control. These thoughts add stress and worry to their life. You may have: ‚
- Constant worry of harm to self or others
- Fear of dirt or germs
- Repeating thoughts
Compulsions: Are how people with OCD try to control the thoughts. You may do some kind of action like: ‚
- Checking things like doors, light switches, or stove controls over and over
- Making lists or counting things
- Repeating a routine
- Washing hands or cleaning things over and over
- Arranging things in a certain order
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will do an exam and take your history. The doctor will also ask questions about your signs. Be sure to talk with your doctor about how the signs are affecting your life each day. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may send you to a mental health expert, like a psychologist or psychiatrist. You may work on learning how to deal with the thoughts that are causing you stress. You may also work on how to lower your anxiety and deal with any other problems you are having. Support groups may help you deal with your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Most often, as you work with your doctors, you will have improvement in your signs. They may not go away fully. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Ease anxiety
- Help with low mood
What problems could happen?
If your OCD is not treated, it can result in: ‚
- Staying away from work or social events
- Not being able to do everyday tasks
- Keeping away from family and friends
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no way to prevent OCD. ‚
Where can I learn more?
International Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Foundation ‚
http://iocdf.org/about-ocd/ ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/OCD.html ‚
National Institute of Mental Health ‚
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/index.shtml ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-05-08 ‚
List_set bdysylist
- Central Nervous System
- Mental Health
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚