The ABCs of OCD: Learn about obsessive-compulsive disorder and how to deal with it – Health News

People with OCD are more likely to die early, according to a new study. When asked if it is an actual disorder, Dr. Achal Bhagat, Senior Consultant, Psychiatrist, Psychotherapist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and Chairman, Sarthak Mental Health Services, says: He says: . Up to 4% of people may live with this disease. But OCD is more than just having the same thoughts over and over again from time to time or simply needing to be extra careful and clean. This is a group of anxiety-related symptoms that cause distress and interfere with daily life. ” With OCD, you repeatedly experience illogical and intrusive thoughts, ideas, images, or doubts. These thoughts are associated with anxiety. They cause significant suffering. These thoughts prevent a person from doing anything.

The second component is an obsession, an action or thought that the person experiencing the obsession must repeat over and over again in order to cope with or neutralize the anxiety associated with the obsession. not. Compulsions are habitual ways of coping with the anxiety caused by obsessions.

OCD can start early in life, even in childhood. It affects both men and women. The most commonly experienced obsessions are related to pollution. For example, the obsessive idea that “I’m dirty” is accompanied by a strong sense of anxiety. This experience of anxiety only responds to repeated hand-washing actions. That thought is triggered again, the anxiety is experienced again, and you have to wash your hands again.

What is the medical reason?

The exact cause of OCD is unknown, but researchers believe the condition is caused by a combination of biological and environmental factors. An imbalance in brain chemistry, particularly the neurotransmitter serotonin, appears to be involved. Research has also revealed a genetic link where OCD runs in families. Although stress and traumatic situations are not the direct cause of his OCD, they can trigger the onset of symptoms or make them worse. Finally, in rare cases, childhood infections may be associated with the development of his OCD.

Is there a cure?

Most people respond to treatment for OCD. Although a cure is not magic and symptoms may sometimes worsen, the quality of life of those living with OCD can be greatly improved with treatment.

Some of them are:

medicine: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, and paroxetine, help many people control serotonin levels and reduce OCD symptoms.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is the main psychotherapy for OCD. CBT allows individuals to change compulsive habits and cognitive processes.

Neuromodulation treatment: Transcranial magnetic stimulation of the brain is a promising new therapeutic area. It is non-invasive and people who do not respond to medication or psychological treatment may respond to TMS.

When does OCD become dangerous?

Alarming new research suggests that people living with OCD are not only more distressed, but also have shorter lifespans. However, this is not the case for most people with OCD.

If left untreated, OCD can cause significant distress and disability.Violent obsessions are rare, but severe guilt can undermine a patient’s mental health If you have persistent thoughts of hurting others. Most people living with OCD are able to manage their symptoms and live functional, satisfying lives through a combination of treatment, medication, self-help approaches, and lifestyle. Fixed.