Development of BDD

BDD usually develops in early teen years, when teens are very preoccupied with their appearance. Patients often experience symptoms such as depression, OCD, or social anxiety. Because there is such a limited amount of information about this disease, people often do not realize they are suffering from it. A definite cause of BDD is unknown, however several factors may play into the development of this disease. A chemical imbalance in the brain is one possible factor. Low levels of serotonin may contribute to BDD. Obsessive compulsive disorder- BDD is thought to be a form of OCD because of the consistent rituals and habits of an individual diagnosed with BDD. Anxiety is also considered a factor of BDD. BDD may co-exist with any type of anxiety disorder. Anxiety and BDD involves non stop worrying that somewhat controls a patients daily life, it can cause exaggerated or unrealistic anxiety about certain situations or appearance, such as a defect of perceived flaw.