The clinical features of obsessive-compulsive disorders are described as:
The clinical features of obsessive-compulsive disorder include obsessions and compulsions. It is possible to observe only obsession symptom or compulsion symptom, one may not realise whether the symptoms are excessive or unreasonable but it takes lot of time in day to day life and time in interfering in social work functioning.
Obsessions symptoms
Obsessions are considered to be repeated, persistent and unwanted thoughts, images which are intrusive and develop anxiety. Obsessions are experienced when an individual trying to think or do things.
Obsession themes
• Fear of contamination or fear of dirt
• Arranging the things orderly and symmetrical
• Aggressive thoughts regarding self-harming
• Unwanted thoughts such as sexual or religious subjects
Signs and symptoms of obsession
• Fear of being contaminated while touching objects
• Doubts that doors are being locked, turning of stove
• Intense stress when the things or objects messy
• Images of hurting self
• Thoughts about shouting
• Avoidance of situations which trigger obsessions
• Distress about unpleasant sexual images
Compulsion symptoms
Compulsion symptoms are repetitive behaviours which makes individual to feel driven to perform. These behaviours are mental acts which help in preventing anxiety regarding obsessions. Compulsion helps in relieving anxiety temporarily.
Compulsions have themes
• Washing and cleaning
• Checking
• Counting
• Orderliness
• Maintaining strict routine
• Demanding reassurances
Compulsion signs and symptoms
• Hand-washing until skin looks are becomes raw to look
• Checking doors repeatedly to know they are locked
• Checking the stove repeatedly whether it is off
• Silently repeating a prayer
• Arranging canned goods in the kitchen.