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If left untreated, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can seriously affect your daily functioning, relationships, success in school, ability to work, and mental health. OCD is usually treated with a combination of behavioral therapy (counseling) and medications. Behavioral therapy can help you gradually confront feared objects or ideas, either directly or by imagination. Medications are used to treat the obsessions, anxiety, distress, and other associated mental disorders.
Psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and specially trained primary care providers are trained to treat OCD. If your doctor doesn't have special training, ask for the name of a doctor or counselor who does.
Treatment involves the following:
Medications
Other treatments—therapy
Surgical procedures are not a treatment option for obsessive-compulsive disorder. Although, researchers have examined a treatment called cingulotomy, a type of brain surgery. In one study, some patients, who were not responding well to medication and therapy, were partially better after surgery.
References:
Dougherty D, Baer L, Rees Cosgrove G, et al, Prospective long-term follow-up of 44 patients who received cingulotomy for treatment—refractory OCD. Am J Psychiatry. 2002;159:2.
Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation website. Available at: http://www.ocfoundation.org . Accessed September 8, 2008.
Last reviewed August 2008 by Theodor B. Rais, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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