Description
A type of anxiety defined by obsessions (recurrent, intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive, ritualistic behaviors). It usually begins in childhood or adolescence, and is somewhat common during and following pregnancy. OCD symptoms fluctuate throughout life, but rarely go completely away.
Symptoms
Obsessions and compulsions can take many forms, examples are: excessive hand washing or refusing to step on cracks in the sidewalk. The symptoms cause distress or interfere with everyday life. Patients usually recognize the behavior is excessive and unreasonable.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A close review of medications is appropriate—some medicines for Parkinson's disease or restless legs syndrome can result in OCD behaviors as a side effect. In children a temporary type of OCD may follow a strep throat infection. Questionnaires, such as the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, can help diagnose OCD and track the progress of treatment.
Other Specific Tests: Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A close review of medications is appropriate—some medicines for Parkinson's disease or restless legs syndrome can result in OCD behaviors as a side effect. In children a temporary type of OCD may follow a strep throat infection. Questionnaires, such as the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, can help diagnose OCD and track the progress of treatment.
Other Specific Tests: Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry
Treatment
OCD is treated using medications and therapy. Medications used include: serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram/Celexa, fluoxetine/Prozac, fluvoxamine/Luvox, paroxetine/Paxil, sertraline/Zoloft); or a tricyclic antidepressant (clomipramine/Anafranil).