When emotions go rogue: Understanding Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA)

Picture this: you’re at a quiet family dinner, and out of nowhere, you start laughing uncontrollably. Or maybe you’re watching a funny movie, but instead of chuckling, you’re sobbing. For people living with pseudobulbar affect (PBA), these moments aren’t just awkward—they’re a daily reality. PBA is a condition where your emotions seem to have a mind of their own, triggering sudden crying or laughing that doesn’t match what’s happening around you. It’s not about being “too emotional”; it’s a neurological issue that can make life feel like an emotional rollercoaster.

This condition often shows up in people with serious brain-related disorders, like ALS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or after a stroke or brain injury. It happens because the brain’s emotional control center gets scrambled, sending out signals that don’t line up with how you actually feel. It’s like a glitch in your brain’s wiring—tears or laughter can spill out without warning, even if you’re feeling calm or happy inside.

Living with PBA isn’t just confusing—it can be isolating. Imagine trying to explain why you’re giggling during a serious meeting or crying at a joke. It’s embarrassing, and it can make you want to avoid people altogether. For someone already coping with a neurological condition, this extra challenge can feel overwhelming, taking a toll on their quality of life and their loved ones too.

At Vanguard Rehabilitation Physicians of Texas, we don’t just treat the condition—we see the person behind it. Dr. Oni combines expertise with genuine care, offering treatments to help tame those emotional outbursts and practical strategies to navigate social situations with more ease. We work hand-in-hand with patients and their families to rebuild confidence and connection. PBA doesn’t define you—your resilience and spirit do.

We’re here to help. Contact Vanguard Rehabilitation Physicians of Texas by phone or visit our website to start a personalized path to managing PBA. Together, we can smooth out the emotional ups and downs and help you live a fuller, more connected life.