Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is sometimes misdiagnosed as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

PTSD treatment focuses on cognitive behavioural therapy. Medications like SSRIs and SNRIs can also help in reducing the symptoms. Diagnosing PTSD can be challenging as there is no test to diagnose it. A mental health professional can assess the patient and make a diagnosis based on symptoms and medical history especially if the patient is somewhat comfortable reliving and recalling the events that lead to the symptoms.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Vivid and unpleasant event memories, flashbacks, frequent nightmares about the event, reliving the event again and again, mental or physical distress on event real, avoidance, difficulty concentrating, easily startling, exaggerated response when startled, a constant feeling of being edgy, irritability, feelings of guilt or worry or blame, episodes of anger, negative thoughts, difficulty recalling important parts of the event, reduced interest in loved activities, depression, panic attacks

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

Further reference:

www.healthline.com

Click here to go to the A-Z list of diagnoses and misdiagnoses.