Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is an anxiety disorder in which you have uncontrollable, recurring thoughts and/or behaviors that must be performed over and over again. At Precise Research Centers in Flowood, Mississippi, Joseph Kwentus, MD, leads clinical trials that examine the latest treatments for OCD. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed and is looking for care, contact the office or fill out the online form on this website.

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common, long-lasting mental disorder. People with OCD are driven to perform repetitive routines or have recurring thoughts. Usually, these thoughts are unwanted.

OCD often shows up as a fear of contamination, sexual thoughts, or fixation on certain images. Patients may repeatedly wash their hands, organize or arrange things, or check that a door is locked. They may use the same phrases over and over again. 

What are the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder?

OCD symptoms may start in childhood or the teen years. In some cases, OCS symptoms don’t manifest until early adulthood. Women are slightly more likely to develop the disorder than men.

Many people with OCD realize that their thoughts don’t match reality. They recognize the irrationality and inconvenience of their habits. 

Someone with OCD may spend at least an hour a day on their disordered thoughts or behaviors. They don’t necessarily get pleasure from performing the rituals; more likely, they feel relief from the anxiety caused by not doing them. 

People with OCD also experience a reduced quality of life due to repetitive behaviors or thoughts, which can interfere with social gatherings, relationships, or work. 

This social disruption causes additional stress because those with OCD are unable to control these thoughts. Some people with OCD believe there’s some truth to the reasoning behind their obsessiveness. 

How is obsessive-compulsive disorder treated?

The research team at Precise Research Centers understands that OCD can be debilitating and wants to help you learn ways to cope. The practice is now enrolling adults in clinical trials for the newest treatments for OCD. 

The goal of clinical trials is to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe. During the trial, medication may be combined with behavior therapy and counseling. 

Medications for OCD typically help you manage your impulses. They usually involve a type of serotonin reuptake inhibitor that reduces your symptoms. 

If you or a loved one has a diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder, call Precise Research Centers to learn more about joining a clinical trial. Alternatively, fill out the online form on this website.