Symptoms and Complications
OCD usually begins slowly, with a few obsessions that develop into rituals. People with OCD are usually preoccupied with cleanliness and avoiding germs. In this case, the repetitive behaviors begin slowly but then become increasingly difficult to control. For example, hand-washing, daily showering, and housework may become frequent, precise, and prolonged.
Some other common compulsions include:
- fear of fire - appliances are checked repeatedly to be sure they are turned off
- concern about being attacked - door locks are checked several times before leaving the house or retiring for the night
- a need for orderliness - a large amount of time is spent organizing and perfecting closet contents
- a compulsion for consistency - following the same path daily when walking to work, or crossing the street at exactly the same spot every day
- counting - brushing hair a particular number of strokes, or touching the table a certain number of times before it can be passed
- fear of losing control or fear of becoming angry
- intrusive sexual thoughts
While some rituals can have a place in every day life, rituals that begin to disturb the quality of life become a problem. People with OCD are unable to skip any steps in the ritualistic behavior because the compulsive thoughts will bother them until they perform the ritual exactly as they think it must be done. While they feel relieved after completing the series of actions, the relief is short-lived. They are soon compelled to repeat the ritual all over again.