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  1. Obsessive–compulsive disorder
    Obsessive–compulsive disorderMental and behavioral disorder
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  2. Overview - Obsessive compulsive disorder

    Verified Expert
    Also known as: OCD
    A mental health disorder characterized by repetitive actions that seem impossible to stop.
    Condition Highlight
    Urgent medical attention is usually recommended by healthcare providers
    How common is condition?
    Very common (More than 3 million cases per year in US)
    Is condition treatable?
    Treatable by a medical professional
    Does diagnosis require lab test or imaging?
    Often requires lab test or imaging
    Time taken for recovery
    Can last several years or be lifelong
    Condition Highlight
    Common for ages 18-35
    Condition Highlight
    Family history may increase likelihood
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    Causes

    Verified Expert

    • The exact cause is not completely understood. It may be associated with:
    • Changes in the chemistry and functioning of brain
    • Family history
    • Environmental factors such as certain infections are said to trigger OCD
    • infections such as streptococcal infection
    • Stressful events in life
    • Other mental illness such as depression or anxiety
    • Substance or alcohol abuse

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    Symptoms

    Verified Expert
    Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms.

    Symptoms can be either obsessions or compulsions, or both. Symptoms can be mild and gradually progress in severity.

    • Stress worsens the symptoms
    • Persistent, repeated and unwanted thoughts
    • Urges or images that are intrusive
    • Compulsive or ritualistic behavior to get rid of the thoughts

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    What are OCD obsessions?
    OCD obsessions are lasting and unwanted thoughts that keeping coming back or urges or images that are intrusive and cause distress or anxiety. You might try to ignore them or get rid of them by acting based on ritual. These obsessions usually intrude when you're trying to think of or do other things. Obsessions often have themes, such as:
    mayoclinic.org

    Treatment

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    Treatments aim at reducing symptoms. It may include psychotherapy or medications.

    Medication

    Antidepressants: To reduce symptoms.

    Clomipramine . Fluoxetine . Sertraline

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    Diagnosis

    Verified Expert
    One or more of these tests may be recommended by your medical provider.
    Diagnosis involves psychological examination and the doctor may ask questions to assess the thoughts and feelings.

    Common tests & procedures

    Psychological examination: Talking and discussing with the patient and family members helps the doctor evaluate the patient’s thoughts, feelings, symptoms, and behavior.

    Blood test: To evaluate total blood cell count, thyroid problems, alcohol and/or drug abuse.

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    Source: Focus Medica. For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.
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