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Baahubali star Anushka Shetty recently spoke about her neurological condition in which she cannot control her laughter or tears. Pseudobulbar affect is a condition in which a person cannot control his laughter or tears and usually has fits of tears in inappropriate situations. Remember Arthur Fleck in the 2019 film Joker – the lead character who could not control his laughter? He suffered from the same condition of pseudobulbar affect.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Prashant Makhija, neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said, “Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is a neurological condition that involves sudden, uncontrollable laughter or crying that is disproportionate or inappropriate to the situation. It is caused by a disruption in the pathways between the higher centres of the brain and the bulbar muscles, which control facial expressions, speech, and swallowing.”
Also read: What is Parkinson’s disease?
Pseudobulbar affect: causes
Often neurological disorders affect the parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation – this can lead to pseudobulbar affect. Some of its causes are stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and brain tumors.
Also read: Effect of Zika virus on the nervous system: Know what is the reason
Pseudobulbar affect: symptoms
Sudden, uncontrollable laughter or cryingThese events may arise from seemingly unrelated events or may even occur suddenly.
Mismatch of emotional expression: the emotional reaction is not consistent with the person’s actual feelings
Frequency and durationThe frequency of these events can vary and they can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
Pseudobulbar affect: treatment
“Although there is no cure for PBA, several treatment options can help manage the symptoms,” said Dr Vivek Barun, Consultant, Department of Neurology and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Artemis Agrim Institute of Neuroscience.
antidepressantsSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) can help control emotional responses.
NuedextaThe combination of dextromethorphan and quinidine, which is specifically approved for the treatment of PBA, helps reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.
Behavior TherapyThis may help individuals develop coping strategies and reduce the impact of PBA on their daily lives.
Support GroupsThey provide a forum for individuals to share experiences and ways to cope.
Patient and Caregiver EducationUnderstanding PBA can help manage expectations and improve communication.
social supportEncouragement from family and friends can help reduce the social and emotional impact of PBA.
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