OCD

OCD

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects 1% to 2% of the population or more than 2-3 million adults in the United States. More people suffer from this disorder than Panic or Bipolar Disorder.

OCD is a brain based disorder that may start in early childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. It is characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that interfere with a person’s day to day life. Repetitive, intrusive thoughts or images are called obsessions. People with OCD develop rituals or behaviors to try to control these obsessions. The distress caused by these symptoms can range from mild to severe and for some may become disabling. Treatment with medication and/or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy seems to be the most beneficial. Diagnosis is paramount.

OCD may be under-diagnosed and under treated for several reasons. One reason being, people with OCD may be latent in discovery about their illness due to unawareness. Also, healthcare providers can sometimes be unfamiliar with the symptoms or are deficient in training to provide appropriate treatment. People with OCD, on average, spend about 10 years seeking treatment before a correct diagnosis is given.

Brain SPECT imaging displays the brain’s circuitry involved when diagnosed with OCD. When coupled with treatment, it can also determine the improved function of these circuits returning towards normal. SPECT imaging offers an additional tool in diagnosing and managing OCD and similar disorders.

Our staff and physicians are here to help. We believe that we can offer additional strategies for understanding your brain’s current functioning through the use of SPECT imaging–a functional brain imaging modality. If you have questions and would like to learn more or schedule an appointment contact us at 1-800-315-5739.