Millions of people around the world have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Understanding its symptoms, causes, and preventative measures is important for providing effective and supportive care, even though it is often misdiagnosed.
OCD: What is it?
OCD is characterised by repetitive behaviors, compulsions, uncomfortable thoughts, obsessions and routines that are followed in an attempt to lessen suffering or anxiety. Relationships and daily tasks can be severely hampered by these obsessions and compulsions.
Understanding OCD Symptoms
OCD can happen in many different ways and every person may have different symptoms. Here are some typical signs of OCD:
Obsessions:
- Unwanted and persistent desires, thoughts or images that make you very sad.
- Feeling scared of germs or pollution.
- Being too focused on being perfect, symmetrical or in order.
- persistent thoughts of injury or violence.
Compulsions:
- Doing things or thinking things over and over again to relieve stress or worry caused by obsessions.
- Cleaning or hand washing is unlimited.
- Checking and reexamining (lights, appliances, locks, etc.
- Counting or saying words or phrases.
- Organising things or changing their order.
OCD people see these thoughts and behaviors as troubling, time-consuming and disruptive to their daily lives.
Causes of OCD
Although the exact cause of OCD is unknown, research points to a potential biological, genetic and environmental combination as a possible culprit:
- OCD may have a genetic component because it usually runs in families.
- Brain chemistry: A imbalance in neurotransmitters like glutamate and serotonin may make OCD symptoms worse.
- OCD symptoms can be caused by traumatic experiences, stressful life events or big life changes.
Preventing OCD
Although there is no guaranteed method to stop OCD, the following tactics may help lower the risk or control the symptoms:
- They should avoid things that can make them feel depressed, like spending too much time on phones or screens.
- OCD is caused by a lack of serotonin hormones. In these cases, people should take medication to increase serotonin levels.
- Talk therapy and behavioral therapy can help people with OCD.
- Water and a fiber-rich diet can also help.
- If symptoms are found, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Disclaimer: This material, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Take the methods, and claims mentioned in this article as suggestions only; DNP India does not confirm or refute them. Consult a doctor before implementing any such suggestions/ treatment/medicine/diet.