Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Is there a connection between OCD and seizures.       My doc says my seizures are the result of cortical dysplasia. Looking back on my life I've always been obsessive compulsive---checking doors and lights, etc. Is this something I should share with my neurologist? Will my seizure meds[Dilantin and Lamictal] have an effect on my OCD?

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

There are quite a few studies conducted on this. Some areas of the limbic system (e.g. Amygdala) are said to link OCD with seizures. But it is difficult to say which came first!

Lamotrigine is an adjunct to SSRI drugs for treating OCD. It will actually help to reduce your OCD symptoms. But this has to be discussed by you and your psychiatrist, if you are consulting one. In my opinion, Lamictal will not have much effect unless you are taking an anti-obsessive drug as a primary drug for OCD.

Have you been diagnosed OCD by a psychiatrist ? Do you wish to share your symptoms ?

Please note that checking doors and lights can come into normal behavior. If this behavior is causing a significant problem in your work and day to day life, then only it can be called as a disorder.

Regards