An individual with pseudobulbar affect (PBA) experiences uncontrollable episodes of laughter, crying, or both disproportionate to their underlying mood. Nervous disorders that affect the brain's ability to express emotions are often associated with this condition, including:
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged.
Having a stroke
MS (Multiple Sclerosis)
The disease of Alzheimer's
The disease of Parkinson's
ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged.
Tumors of the brain
Pseudobulbar affect is characterized by the following symptoms:
Unexpected, sudden, and frequent episodes of laughter or crying.
Inconsistency between the intensity or duration of an individual's emotional outbursts and their emotional state.
It is possible to trigger emotional episodes spontaneously or in response to trivial or inappropriate stimuli.
An individual's social interactions and quality of life can be affected significantly by episodes, whether they are brief or prolonged.
Pseudobulbar affect is typically diagnosed by:
To assess for underlying neurological conditions or injuries that may contribute to PBA symptoms.
Examination of the nervous system to detect signs of motor dysfunction, cognitive impairment, or other neurological deficits.
Psychiatric assessment to rule out mood disorders or psychiatric conditions that might mimic PBA symptoms.
To assess the frequency and severity of emotional outbursts, screening tools such as the Center for Neurologic Studies-Lability Scale (CNS-LS) or the Pathological Laughter and Crying Scale (PLACS) are used.
There are several treatment options for pseudobulbar affect, including:
Some individuals may benefit from medications such as dextromethorphan/quinidine (Nuedexta) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Individuals with pseudobulbar affect may benefit from counseling, psychotherapy, or support groups.
Individuals may gain better control over their emotional expression and improve their communication skills through techniques such as relaxation exercises, breathing exercises, and vocalization exercises.
In some cases, treating underlying neurological disorders such as stroke, MS, or ALS may help alleviate PBA symptoms.
Individuals can reduce their risk of developing pseudobulbar affect by following these steps:
Practicing safety measures to prevent falls and accidents to prevent neurological injuries and conditions that may predispose them to PBA.
Medical attention should be sought for symptoms of neurological disorders or injuries that may increase the risk of PBA, such as changes in mood, behavior, or emotional expression.
