Intrusive Thoughts

Unwanted, repetitive thoughts that cause anxiety, characteristic of OCD.

What is Intrusive Thoughts?

Intrusive Thoughts is a symptom that people may experience for many reasons. It can be related to infections, chronic conditions, injuries, medication effects, or other health changes. The presence of this symptom alone does not diagnose any condition.

If you have Intrusive Thoughts that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other warning signs, contact a qualified healthcare provider.

Possible conditions associated with Intrusive Thoughts

The following conditions have been associated with Intrusive Thoughts. Only a health professional can determine the underlying cause.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

A condition characterized by unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

PANDAS

A term for the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms or tics in children following a streptococcal infection. It...

Related symptoms

AnxietyFacial ticsIrritabilityRepetitive BehaviorsRestlessness

When to seek medical care

Seek urgent care if Intrusive Thoughts is severe, sudden, or occurs with chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, severe weakness, or other serious symptoms.