Anushka Shetty, renowned for her roles in movies such as Baahubali and Arundhati, experiences a rare condition that triggers involuntary episodes of laughter or crying.
‘I have a condition where I can’t stop laughing once I start. It might sound funny, but it’s a real issue for me. During comedy scenes, whether I’m watching or filming, I often end up laughing uncontrollably. This has even caused interruptions during shoots,’ the actor shared in an interview, as reported by Indiaglitz.
What does this condition entail?
Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA) is a rare neurological condition impacting the brain, leading to episodes of uncontrollable laughter or crying. Although Anushka Shetty has not confirmed experiencing this condition, the symptoms she described in the interview align closely with those of PBA.
These sudden and disproportionate emotional responses can be disorienting and distressing for both the affected person and those in their vicinity.
Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is commonly linked with neurological conditions affecting the brain, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer’s disease. It arises from disruptions in neural pathways that regulate emotional expression, causing a disconnect between a person’s emotions and how they outwardly display them.
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Symptoms of PBA can vary widely in frequency and intensity. Individuals may laugh in response to a sad event or cry during a humorous situation, with episodes lasting from seconds to several minutes. The unpredictable nature of PBA significantly impacts quality of life, often leading to social awkwardness, anxiety, and depression.
Diagnosing PBA presents challenges due to symptom overlap with other emotional or psychiatric disorders. However, healthcare providers can utilize specific screening tools like the Center for Neurologic Study-Lability Scale (CNS-LS) to aid in identification.
Treatment for PBA typically centers around medication aimed at controlling episodes. The FDA has approved a dextromethorphan and quinidine combination specifically for PBA. Antidepressants are also sometimes prescribed, showing effectiveness in reducing both the frequency and severity of episodes.
Beyond medication, managing PBA involves educating patients and families to enhance understanding and develop effective coping strategies. Support groups and counseling can offer emotional support and practical advice.
