Asperger Syndrome and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Asperger and OCD

Even though Asperger syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are two separate conditions, people who experience one sometimes experience the other as well. Learn more about living with these disorders.

Defining Asperger Syndrome

Asperger syndrome (AS) is a neurological condition characterized by developmental delays. These delays typically manifest as impaired communication and language skills, poor social interaction, and repetitious thoughts and behavior patterns.

Causes

The precise cause of Asperger syndrome remains unknown, although some theories point to brain abnormalities brought about by the unnatural migration of embryonic cells throughout fetal development. This migration affects the structure of the brain and the neural circuits responsible for behavior and thinking. Other theories include environmental factors and genetics.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs of Asperger syndrome below usually begin to appear at three years of age or older.

  • Impaired ability to socialize and relate to others
  • Exhibits a strong dislike for changes in routine
  • Adopts unusual speech patterns
  • Unusual clumsiness and impaired motor skills
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Dislikes strong sensory experiences like bright lights or loud noises
  • Shows obsessive interest in a handful things and almost no interest in anything else

Defining Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is a long-term anxiety or neurological disorder in which the sufferer experiences recurring thoughts and impulses that result in obsessive behaviors. Sometimes these impulses are so severe that they interfere drastically with a person's ability to function in all life areas due to the amount of time behaviors consume or the fear and anxiety they cause.

Causes

Like Asperger syndrome, it's unclear what causes OCD despite research into the disorder. Many theories suggest that the way some parts of the brain sends information to other parts may be at fault. Low serotonin levels may also factor into the cause of OCD.

Signs and Symptoms

OCD symptoms vary on an individual basis but may include some of the behaviors and thoughts below.

  • Excessive hand washing, showering, or other grooming habits
  • Excessive house cleaning and ordering of objects
  • Obsessing over numbers and counting
  • Hoarding certain items
  • Excessively checking and rechecking certain actions like locking a door or flipping a switch
  • Ritualistic phrase repetition
  • Ritualistic activities like clusters of repeated sitting and standing
  • Extreme fear about body odor, germs, or public places

Experiencing Asperger Syndrome and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Although it's unclear why some people suffer from Asperger syndrome and obsessive compulsive disorder at the same time, some physicians believe that AS leads to anxiety or depression, which may or may not worsen over time to include OCD. Further, some doctors think there is a physiological link between AS or autism and mood disorders like OCD which may impair a person's ability to regulate emotions and perception.

Treating AS and OCD

Most of the time, treatments for Asperger syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder occur separately, but it's crucial that all health professionals involved in any treatments are fully informed about both disorders. For example, physicians need to know about treatments a mental health professional may prescribe for OCD and mental health professionals need to know about prescribed treatments and therapy for Asperger syndrome. By having full awareness, both disorders receive the necessary attention without unnecessary or dangerous contraindications.

Dealing with AS and OCD

It's especially challenging for families in which one or more members experience Asperger syndrome and obsessive compulsive disorder together. One way to deal with these challenges while also providing the best care and support for the patient is to seek family or individual counseling. Support groups, online communities, or professional therapies are also effective ways to learn appropriate coping strategies.

Final Thoughts

Whether you or a family member have Asperger syndrome and OCD, seek help immediately if you're having an unnaturally difficult time coping. Your physician, mental health professional or local hospital can put you in touch with people who can provide the help you and your family need. Life with AS and OCD is always a challenge but with the right support and perspective, the rewards are many.