What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that can affect individuals of any age, including children, adolescents, and adults. People with OCD experience persistent, intrusive thoughts known as obsessions, which often lead to repetitive behaviors called compulsions. These behaviors are performed in an attempt to alleviate the distress caused by the obsessions, but they often provide only temporary relief.

Individuals with OCD may exhibit one or both of the following symptoms:

1. Obsessions: These are recurrent, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. Common obsessions include:

   • Aggressive thoughts: These can be directed towards others or oneself.
   • Fear of contamination: An overwhelming fear of germs, dirt, or illness.

2. Compulsions: These are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels compelled to perform in response to an obsession or according to rigid rules. Common compulsions include:

   • Excessive cleaning: This can involve hand-washing, bathing, or cleaning the environment excessively.
   • Orderliness: Arranging items in a specific, precise manner.
   • Checking: Repeatedly checking locks, appliances, or other things to ensure they are in a certain state.

Causes of OCD

The exact cause of OCD remains unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to the development of the disorder. These factors include:

• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of OCD can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Trauma and Abuse: Exposure to traumatic events or abuse can trigger OCD symptoms.
• Brain Structure and Function: Abnormalities in brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to regulation of emotions and behavior, are associated with OCD.

Treatment Options for OCD

At NoCo MedSpa & IV Therapy, our specialized team offers tailored treatment plans to address OCD, focusing on innovative approaches such as ketamine infusion therapy. While traditional treatments like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are available, they often do not address the underlying neural dysfunction. Ketamine, on the other hand, has shown promise in improving neural connectivity and overall brain function.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy:

1. Consultation and Assessment: Our experienced Anesthesiologist/Anesthetist team conducts a thorough consultation to evaluate whether ketamine infusion therapy is suitable for you. This assessment includes a detailed review of your medical history and current symptoms.

2. Customized Treatment Plan: If deemed appropriate, a personalized treatment plan is developed. Typically, this involves a series of six low-dose ketamine infusions, each lasting one hour.

3. Infusion Sessions: During each session, patients receive the infusion in a controlled, relaxing environment. The process includes 40 minutes of infusion followed by a 20-minute recovery period. Patients are closely monitored throughout the session to ensure safety and efficacy. Mild visual hallucinations and other temporary effects may occur but usually dissipate quickly.

4. Follow-Up and Maintenance: As patients show improvement, booster infusions may be recommended to maintain the therapeutic benefits. These boosters are usually scheduled 3-5 weeks after the initial series and are adjusted based on the patient’s response, symptom severity, and any concurrent medications.

Learn More and Get Started

If you are interested in learning more about how ketamine IV infusion therapy can help manage OCD, we encourage you to contact NoCo MedSpa & IV Therapy. Our dedicated team in Greeley, Colorado, is committed to providing effective treatments for depression and other symptoms, ensuring each patient receives the care they need.

Call us or book an appointment online today to take the first step towards managing your OCD and improving your quality of life.