thistooshallpass1996 Posted December 4, 2021 Share Posted December 4, 2021 Hi, I’ve been hit with a really bad infection (doctor reckons tonsillitis) and I’ve noticed that my OCD has gotten worse the past few days. Could it be because I have an infection? Link to comment
PolarBear Posted December 4, 2021 Share Posted December 4, 2021 (edited) Unlikely. In fact, near 100% no. What is more likely is that you have gotten yourself anxious and stressed about your health and that has spurred your OCD on. Edited December 4, 2021 by PolarBear Link to comment
BelAnna Posted December 4, 2021 Share Posted December 4, 2021 It is possible. Bacterial infections and viruses can cause inflammation and changes to various physiological, hormonal and neurochemical responses that lead to worsened mental states. Strep (which causes bacterial tonsillitis) can also cause autoimmune responses which could potentially make OCD worse and which are linked to sudden onset OCD/PANDAS in kids. Link to comment
PolarBear Posted December 4, 2021 Share Posted December 4, 2021 I forgot about PANDAS. There is debate whether the disorder causes OCD or OCD-like symptoms, notably excessive and often bizarre rituals. It also typically affects youth. Link to comment
Handy Posted December 5, 2021 Share Posted December 5, 2021 I just got a booster vaccine & it gave me a fever. Revs up the thoughts for a day. The reason is because our amygdala or anxiety center protects us. So it sees a fever as being attacked & revs up safety measures like compulsions. Once you’re better, alarm goes off. Link to comment
thistooshallpass1996 Posted December 5, 2021 Author Share Posted December 5, 2021 Hi guys, @Handy @PolarBear @BelAnna Thanks for your responses. I should probably mention I’m spending a lot of time in my room while I’m recovering so it could also be because I have a lot of time to think. I like to spend time by myself but then when I spend time on my own it always sets me back. I felt well enough to tidy my room today though and that seemed to help with the thoughts/anxiety as I was doing other things. Now I’m in bed and I’ve just stuck one of my favourite Disney films on to try help me relax (never too old for a bit of Disney) Link to comment
snowbear Posted December 5, 2021 Share Posted December 5, 2021 1 hour ago, thistooshallpass1996 said: I have a lot of time to think. 100% recognised as something which makes OCD worse. Forget blaming viruses and bacteria! Keep your minds occupied in useful ways people and you'll suffer less no matter how many viruses and bugs you catch. Link to comment
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