Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Overview
Causes
The exact cause of OCD is not known. The nervous system, environment, and genes may play a role.
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The genes that you inherit from your family may play a role in the development of OCD. |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Symptoms of OCD may be:
-
Obsessions—repeated and unwanted ideas, images, or urges, such as:
- Fear of being harmed or causing harm
- Excess fear of germs or dirt
- Religious, violent, or sexual thoughts
- Needing things in perfect order
-
Compulsions—repeated and unwanted behaviors, such as:
- Excess checking on things—such as door locks, stoves, and light switches
- Making lists, counting, and arranging things
- Hoarding useless objects
- Repeating routine actions
- Rereading and rewriting
- Repeating phrases
- Excess hand washing
OCD may happen with:
- Other anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Organic brain syndrome
- Tourette syndrome
- Attention deficit disorder
Treatments
Treatment
The goal is to reduce unwanted thoughts and compulsions. Early treatment can have better results. Options may be:
-
Medicines, such as:
- SSRIs
- Antidepressants
- Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy
Sometimes OCD is severe and hard to treat. In this case, options may be:
- Electroconvulsive therapy —a brief electric pulse helps reset the brain
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)— a device sends pulses to the brain
- Brain surgery
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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