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via sharecare.com What is OCD? Obsessive–compulsive disorder ( OCD ) is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts that produce uneasiness, apprehension, fear, or worry; by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing the associated anxiety; or by a combination of such obsessions and compulsions . Symptoms of the disorder include excessive washing or cleaning; repeated checking; extreme hoarding ; preoccupation with sexual , violent or religious thoughts; relationship-related obsessions ; aversion to particular numbers; and nervous rituals , such as opening and closing a door a certain number of times before entering or leaving a room. These symptoms can be alienating and time-consuming, and often cause severe emotional and financial distress. The acts of those who have OCD may appear paranoid and potentially psychotic . However, OCD sufferers generally recognize their obsessions and compulsions as irrational, and may become further distressed by this realization