Hi

This is Elisheba waqas, and today, we are going to discuss OCD.  We shall learn that what is OCD?.  Why is OCD considered a silent killer?  OCD is a short form of Obsessive Compulsion Disorder, and it is a psychological, mental disorder.   We shall discuss in-depth about:

a.  Root cause

b.  Signs and symptoms

c.  Diagnosis

d.  Treatment

e.  Followup

a. Root cause

it is still a myth that how and why somebody falls prey to this painful disorder.  Is it some kind of genetic or hereditary disease? Some researchers have shown results that if somebody in the family is affected with this disorder, then any other among family may also get the same disorder in any stage of life. Medical science and researchers are studying the main cause of the disorder.  However, it has yet to get a conclusion. Furthermore, it is also believed that chemical imbalance in the brain also creates abnormalities.  Any factor can cause the trigger of OCD which is associated with belief, as well.

b. Sign and symptoms

The biggest sign of this disorder is: "Perfectionist."  One always tries to arrange the things in immaculate order and get the thing in tidy condition.  Checking of locks, washing of hands multiple times, avoiding social gatherings, etc.  One obsession of some contamination is coming, and to overcome it, the patient tries to wash the hands or article which is being felt contaminated. This cycle goes on, i.e., Obsession/ Compulsion.  Patients constantly seek reassurance and ask the same question multiple times.

c.  Diagnosis

One cannot diagnose without the help of a psychologist. An experienced psychologist takes input and history to diagnose and evaluate, and often, they evaluate by using different testing techniques.  These testing techniques help them to find the dynamics of OCD. He may discuss the happenings or about patients' thoughts and behavior.  A book known as DSM-V (Diagnosis and Statistical Manual) is also relevant to establish the underlying condition of OCD.  It is tough to establish the disorder just by symptoms as these symptoms are prevalent in depression, mood disorder or schizophrenia, etc.  The patient must be examined by a qualified psychologist and find the exact disorder.

d.  Treatment

Its treatment mainly consists of three phases, and mostly these phases work simultaneously.  OCD is considered curable.  However, it takes a long span of time with continuous efforts with alot of patience and courage both by family and patient himself.  The three phases are:

a.     Medicines like risperidone, seroft, Clomipramine (Anafranil) etc

b.     Psychotherapy like ERP (Exposure and preventive therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), etc.

c.     Social rehabilitation like encouraging to participate in life and overcome the fear of OCD.

Its treatment is usually tedious and takes more than one year or maybe more.  

e.  Follow up

The patient needs care and attention. The patient should be given a due look after and regular follow-ups to evaluate progress.  OCD can ruin lives if not treated timely.  It has multiple impacts not only on a patient's life but on society as well. Furthermore, it also convinces the patient that he is being taken care of by his close members.