Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Overview

The obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition in which people have uncontrollable and reoccurring thoughts and behaviours. It is a common problem which can affect people of all ages and can cause a lot of distress.

Signs and Symptoms

Fear of dirt or contamination, Intense stress when things are not done in a certain way, Unwanted thoughts about aggression or religious subjects, Avoidance of situations which may trigger obsessions, Thoughts about harming other people or yourself, Following a strict routine, Repetitive behaviours such as washing and checking things

Common Causes

Genetic factors such as a family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder especially in first-degree relatives, Altered brain chemistry and structure affecting the way your brain function, Environmental factors such as infections or a recent disease outbreak, Paediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS)

Risk Factors

Family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder, Environmental factors such as infections or a recent disease outbreak, Traumatic or stressful life events, Personal history of other mental health disorders for example depression or anxiety disorders, Alcohol or recreational drug abuse

Investigation Techniques

Medical, Psychiatric and social history to look for signs of any underlying medical condition and substance abuse, Physical examination to look for signs of any underlying medical condition and substance abuse, Blood tests such as full blood count and thyroid function tests, Urine test to look for substance abuse, Psychological evaluation, Comparison of symptoms to criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)

Treatment and Prevention

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as fluoxetine, sertraline and fluvoxamine, Tricyclic antidepressants such as clomipramine, Antipsychotic medications such as risperidone, Cognitive behavioural therapy such as exposure and response prevention, Habit reversal training, Deep brain stimulation