Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)Symptoms & treatment
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly known as OCD, can present in different ways. OCD can present in various different combinations. In general, those who suffer from OCD have unwanted and intrusive thoughts coming to their mind and that they find it difficult to get out of their heads (Obsessions), often forcing them to perform ritualistic behaviours and routines (compulsions) to try to reduce their anxiety.
People with symptoms of OCD are aware that their obsessions and compulsions are irrational and despite of their resistance they feel helpless to stop them. Several hours of the day are spend on thinking about or trying to avoid the obsessions and performing senseless rituals. Fear of germs or the need to arrange objects in a specific manner are most common themes in OCD. Common compulsions and rituals involve hand washing, counting, or checking, doing calculations or maths in mind, etc. They lead to disruption of daily functioning and persons normal routine, one is not able to focus at job, school, or social activities. Not able to concentrate on daily activities, not able to complete the task at hand, are very common complaints.
Symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
Washing and Cleaning
- Excessive Washing of hands
- Excessive bathing
- Over concern about cleanliness. Cleaning of household items or other objects excessively
- Avoiding contact with contaminants or dirt.
Checking
- Checking of electricity switches, gas stove knob, locks
- Checking that nothing bad or terrible happened
Repeating
- Repeating activities in “multiples” (examples: doing a task three times because three is a “good,” “right,” “safe” number)
Other Compulsions
- Doing or arranging things in order until it “feels right”
- Seeking reassurances by confessing or asking.
- Avoiding situations that might trigger your obsessions.
How is OCD Diagnosed?Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Only professional doctor or a Psychiatrist can diagnose OCD.
The doctor will look for three things:
- The person has obsessions.
- The associated compulsive behaviors.
- The ritual behaviours consume lot of time and get in the way of important activities or routine work.
Treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)in pune
Treatment for OCD primarily include Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and/or medication.
What Are the Most Effective Treatments for OCD?
The most effective treatments for OCD are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and medications.
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is the more specific version of CBT which has the strong evidence for its use in the treatment of OCD. It involves increasing exposure to what causes the problems while not allowing the repetitive behaviour to occur. Exposure and Response Prevention is done by a licensed mental health professional in an outpatient setting.
Medications used are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can only be prescribed by a licensed medical professionals (Psychiatrist). Medications are commonly required in severe and resistant OCD cases. The diagnosis and treatment should only be after a thorough psychiatric evaluation by a psychiatrist. It is prevalent across all age groups and most commonly associated with Depression, anxiety disorders, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric co morbidities.
As with any illness, the treatment should be tailored to a specific individual. At Mind Matters clinic, we go beyond providing consultation service to offer you a complete solution. Our aim is to rehabilitate and help the client to be happier and independent in life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD please contact us today.
Dr. Pankaj Borade (M.D.Psychiatry) is a psychiatrist in Pune. He is a consultant at Mind Matters clinic and Ruby Hall Clinic Hospital in Pune City.
More articles or information can be found at our website or on our Facebook page. Contact at pankajborade@onlymindmatters.com
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) diagnosis
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) treatment in pune