By: Abel De la Trinidad

Who is most at risk for OCD? What its used to diagnose ODC?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) With OCD, you may or may not realize that your obsessions aren't reasonable. But that only increases your distress and anxiety.

The cause of obsessive-compulsive disorder isn't fully understood. Main theories include: Biology: OCD may be a result of changes in your body's own natural chemistry or brain functions. Environment: Some environmental factors such as infections are suggested as a trigger for OCD

Hand-washing: Compulsive hand-washing or hand sanitizer use is so prevalent Overzealous cleaning: tend to clean compulsively. Checking behavior: returning three, four, or even 20 times to make sure the oven is off or the front door is locked Organization: People with OCD can take organizing to the level of perfectionism.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms usually include both obsessions and compulsions. Possible to only have ONE of these Symptoms. ALSO About one-third of people with OCD have a disorder that includes sudden, brief, intermittent movements or sounds (tics)

OCD obsessions are repeated persistent and unwanted urges or images that cause distress or anxiety Obsessions often have themes to them, such as: Fear of contamination or dirt Having things orderly and symmetrical Aggressive or horrific thoughts about harming yourself or others Unwanted thoughts, including aggression, or sexual or religious subjects

Fear of being contaminated by shaking hands or by touching objects others have touched Doubts that you've locked the door or turned off the stove Intense stress when objects aren't orderly or facing a certain way Images of hurting yourself or someone else Thoughts about shouting obscenities or acting inappropriately Avoidance of situations that can trigger obsessions, such as shaking hands Distress about unpleasant sexual images repeating in your mind

OCD compulsions are repetitive behaviors that you feel driven to perform. These repetitive behaviors are meant to prevent or reduce anxiety related to your obsessions or prevent something bad from happening. As with obsessions, compulsions typically have themes, such as: Washing and cleaning Counting Checking Demanding reassurances Following a strict routine Orderliness

Hand-washing until your skin becomes raw Checking doors repeatedly to make sure they're locked Checking the stove repeatedly to make sure it's off Counting in certain patterns Silently repeating a prayer, word or phrase Arranging your canned goods to face the same way

Factors that may increase the risk of developing or triggering obsessive-compulsive disorder include: Family history: Having parents or other family members with the disorder can increase your risk of developing OCD Stressful life events: If you've experienced traumatic or stressful events

Psychotherapy. It teaches a person different ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to situations. Help him or her feel less anxious or fearful without having obsessive thoughts or acting compulsively. Medication. Doctors also may prescribe medication to help treat OCD. Anti-anxiety medications Are powerful and there are different types. Antidepressants Used to treat depression

Physical exam. This may be done to help rule out other problems Lab tests. A complete blood count screening for alcohol and drugs Psychological evaluation. A doctor or mental health provider asks about your thoughts, feelings, symptoms and behavior patterns.

Side effects. Medications have potential side effects: which may include stomach upset, sleep disturbance, sweating and reduced interest in sexual activity.

Most antidepressants are generally safe, In some cases, children, teenagers and young adults under 25 may: have an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking antidepressants Keep in mind that antidepressants are more likely to reduce suicide risk in the long run by improving mood.

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