Understanding pseudobulbar affect (PBA)

People with pseudobulbar affect (PBA) have sudden outbursts of involuntary emotional displays that they cannot control. They may start to cry or laugh, even though there is nothing sad or funny to trigger those emotions.

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) may occur when certain neurologic diseases or injuries damage the area of the brain that controls normal expression of emotion. This damage can disrupt brain signaling, causing a “short circuit” and triggering episodes of involuntary crying or laughing.

Pseudobulbar affect's (PBA) unpredictable involuntary emotional displays can cause anxiety and embarrassment, particularly in public settings. These episodes can be so disruptive for some people that they avoid social situations and grow to feel more and more isolated over time. 

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) can occur in people diagnosed with conditions including:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS)
• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Certain other neurologic conditions

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is a distinct neurologic disorder, which can be diagnosed separately from the underlying disease or injury.

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) episodes may look like signs of depression and, as a result, pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is frequently misunderstood. But unlike depression, pseudobulbar affect (PBA) episodes are often sudden, unpredictable, and may be exaggerated or contrary to the person’s mood.