Obsessive compulsive disorder, or OCD, is an anxiety disorder which, like many anxiety disorders, is marked by low levels of serotonin. Serotonin, a type of neurotransmitter, has a variety of functions that make a deficiency a serious and anxiety producing issue.
Researchers have found that obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), an anxiety condition, is linked to low levels of serotonin. Serotonin, a hormone/neurotransmitter, performs a variety of functions in the body, which is why a serotonin deficiency can lead to anxiety-provoking OCD symptoms.
Most studies conducted in adults with OCD have found no difference or minimal reduction in glutamate concentration in striatum and reduced glutamate levels in anterior cingulate cortex.
Preclinical, neuroimaging and neurochemical studies have provided evidence demonstrating that the dopaminergic system is involved in inducing or aggravating the symptoms that are indicative of OCD.
Compared with healthy controls, the GABA/W and NAA/W concentration in individuals with OCD are significantly decreased (p=0.031, t=2.193, p=0.002, t=3.223).
Studies have shown that women with OCD are likely to have abnormal hormone levels and that these hormones play a role in triggering or worsening the condition.
Glycine is an amino acid that is associated with cortical glutamatergic function. Glycine has potential to ameliorate OCD symptoms due to its agonist effect on NMDA receptors. High-protein foods such as meat, fish, beans and dairy products include glycine.
We found that those with OCD had higher levels of a specific pro-inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-6 (IL-6) compared to youth in the healthy control group. Those with more severe OCD had higher levels of multiple markers including IL-6, interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Ongoing anxiety or stress, or being part of a stressful event like a car accident or starting a new job, could trigger OCD or make it worse. Pregnancy or giving birth can sometimes trigger perinatal OCD.
Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often experience aversive emotions such as anxiety, fear and disgust in response to obsessive thoughts, urges or images.
Brain scans may be helpful in showing the differences in the structure and function of brain regions in individuals with OCD. Such studies can provide new targets for the treatment of OCD.
Can OCD lead to brain damage? OCD fundamentally changes the brain, showing a significant reduction in grey matter density in some regions. In severe cases, this can permanently change how the brain works for patients with OCD. However, most people can lead normal and happy lives with therapy and medication.
Functional imaging studies have reported with remarkable consistency hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and caudate nucleus of patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been linked to altered neurological function following head trauma, encephalitis, abnormal birth events, and Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome.
According to the Association for Comprehensive Neurotherapy, a diet rich in whole grains and protein may be beneficial for reducing symptoms of OCD and preventing anxious reactions.
Studies have shown that anomalous changes in serum levels of vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine may contribute to the development of OCD (37–40). In this meta-analysis, we found a statistically significant higher homocysteine level and lower concentration of B12 vitamins in patients with OCD.
Studies have shown that patients with OCD have high levels of homocysteine and low levels of Vitamin B12 in comparison to healthy individuals14. It is also possible that OCD is an early manifestation of Vitamin B12 deficiency13.
Patients with OCD have a disproportionately high blood cortisol level (stress hormone). The vulnerability of OCD patients to chronic stress causes significant changes in goal-directed behaviors, abilities to interact with the environment, and decision-making skills [12].
What causes OCD? Experts aren't sure of the exact cause of OCD. Genetics, brain abnormalities, and the environment are thought to play a role. It often starts in the teens or early adulthood.
Both the systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that cortisol levels are significantly higher in OCD patients than healthy individuals.
Obsessive-compulsive symptoms generally wax and wane over time. Because of this, many individuals diagnosed with OCD may suspect that their OCD comes and goes or even goes away—only to return. However, as mentioned above, obsessive-compulsive traits never truly go away. Instead, they require ongoing management.