OCD is a chronic illness which, like other psychiatric illnesses, has periods of exacerbation followed by periods of relative improvement, though a completely symptom-free interval is generally unusual. With treatment, most sufferers have considerable improvement.
Complications:
The most likely long-term consequences of OCD are related to the nature of the obsessions or compulsions. For example, constant handwashing can cause skin breakdown. However, OCD does not ordinarily progress into another disease.
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your obsession is interfering with daily life, work, or relationships. Call if your compulsion is consuming an inordinate amount of time, energy, or resources.
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