Are emotional breakdowns, crying, and raising your voice connected to MS? Absolutely — and you're far from alone in experiencing this.
MS can affect the parts of the brain that regulate emotions, which can lead to unexpected emotional responses. There are a few possible explanations for what might be happening. Pseudobulbar Show Full Answer
Are emotional breakdowns, crying, and raising your voice connected to MS? Absolutely — and you're far from alone in experiencing this.
MS can affect the parts of the brain that regulate emotions, which can lead to unexpected emotional responses. There are a few possible explanations for what might be happening. Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA)
This is when MS damages the areas of the brain that control emotional expression. It can cause sudden, uncontrollable crying or laughing that doesn't match how you actually feel inside. As one MyMSTeam member shared, "I'm just getting over a relapse, and I find myself bursting into uncontrollable tears for no reason. I'm not even upset."
PBA episodes typically last only a few minutes. There is an FDA-approved medication called Nuedexta that can help manage PBA symptoms.
Depression
Nearly 50% of people with MS experience depression, which can bring on intense emotional episodes, irritability, and crying. Unlike PBA, depression involves ongoing feelings of sadness or hopelessness lasting weeks or more.
Mood Swings
MS can also cause periods of unusually intense emotions, including irritability and sadness, which could explain raising your voice unexpectedly.
MS Medications
Some MS treatments, like interferon beta-1a (Avonex or Rebif), can cause mood swings and emotional changes as a side effect. It's really worth bringing this up with your neurologist. They can help figure out the cause and point you toward the right support — whether that's medication, therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or both. You don't have to just ride this emotional rollercoaster alone.
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