What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?
2. What Causes OCD?
While there is no current definitive answer to what causes OCD, researchers do believe that the disorder involves communication problems between the frontal lobe and deeper structures of the brain. The communication between these structures relies on the chemical messenger serotonin. Some studies suggest that with medications that affect serotonin production, OCD patients may experience higher levels of normal thought patterns.
Beyond the chemical imbalance, research suggests a correlation with OCD development and genetics. While genes likely play a role in the chances of developing the illness, some researchers believe that life stressors may instigate its progression.
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