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Obsessive-compulsive disorder

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Definition:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by obsessions or compulsions. Having one or both is sufficient for the diagnosis. An obsession is a recurrent and intrusive thought, feeling, idea, or sensation. A compulsion is a conscious, recurrent pattern of behavior a person feels driven to perform.

This behavior can be a physical action (such as handwashing) or a mental act (such as praying, repeating words silently, counting). The behavior is aimed at neutralizing anxiety or distress. One example of this is excessive handwashing intended to ward off infection.

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Alternative Names:
Obsessive-compulsive neurosis; OCD

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

OCD was previously believed to be rare. However, recent data show that 2-3% of people, or about 7 million Americans, suffer from this disorder. OCD usually is noticed between the ages of 20 and 30, and 75% of those who will develop it show symptoms by age 30.

There are several psychological theories about the cause of OCD, but none has been confirmed. Some reports associate OCD with head trauma or infections.

Similarly, although there are several studies showing brain abnormalities in patients with OCD, but these inconsistent results require more investigation.

Interestingly, 20% of OCD sufferers also have motor tics, suggesting it may be related to Tourette syndrome, but this link is not clear.

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