The Awkward Habit That Might Mean You Have MS

Health experts say that some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience “awkward” episodes that can lead to intense embarrassment and overwhelming anxiety.

MS is an autoimmune disease first identified in 1868 by French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot. Since then, research has progressed significantly, and doctors can often diagnose the condition early thanks to well-known symptoms like loss of mobility and balance issues.

However, there is another lesser-known symptom that affects both men and women equally.

What Is MS?

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society defines MS as an “unpredictable disease” that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. The illness is considered both neurological and autoimmune, and it can cause problems with speech, writing, muscle movement, and balance.

The MS Trust reports that more than 7,100 people are diagnosed each year, averaging about 135 diagnoses per week. Celebrities who have shared their MS diagnosis include Dead to Me star Christina Applegate, Jack Osbourne, and Legally Blonde actress Selma Blair.

The illness is considered both neurological and autoimmune.

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Laughing Uncontrollably Due to MS

One symptom that some people with MS experience is pseudobulbar affect (PBA). This condition causes sudden and uncontrollable episodes of laughter, crying, or even anger that do not match a person’s actual feelings.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, PBA affects about 10 percent of people with MS, with equal frequency in men and women. The Cleveland Clinic notes that these episodes can last longer than expected and often lead to extreme embarrassment, anxiety, and even social withdrawal.

One of the key psychological principles at play here is the fear of social stigma. According to research by Patrick W. Corrigan and Amy C. Watson, the fear of being stigmatized can lead to self-imposed isolation and increased stress, which can exacerbate MS symptoms and contribute to the cycle of anxiety.

The exact cause of PBA is still unknown

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Why MS Can Cause Uncontrollable Laughter

The exact cause of PBA is still unknown. However, the condition has been linked to traumatic brain injuries, Wilson’s disease, and strokes. The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America believes that MS lesions can affect parts of the brain responsible for regulating emotions, which may trigger the behavior.

“This type of emotional behavior is difficult to control voluntarily and can be extremely distressing to those who experience it,” the charity explains. “Although there may be a minor trigger for the laughing or crying, the response is exaggerated and disproportionate to the apparent trigger.”

MS symptoms vary from person to person, but common ones include extreme fatigue, dizziness, balance problems, and memory or concentration issues.

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Understanding the Psychological Impact of MS Symptoms

Living with any chronic illness can be distressing, but the unpredictable nature of MS symptoms can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and embarrassment, as highlighted by a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health. These 'awkward' episodes, as the article describes, can often lead to social isolation, further impacting the individual's mental health.

Other Symptoms of MS

MS symptoms vary from person to person, but common ones include extreme fatigue, dizziness, balance problems, muscle cramps, spasms or stiffness, and memory or concentration issues, according to the NHS.

Some people also report unusual skin sensations such as sharp “electric shocks,” pins and needles, buzzing, or burning. Others may experience slower thinking, sexual difficulties such as vaginal dryness, and bladder problems, including increased frequency or loss of control.

Coping Mechanisms and The Role of Psychological Support

Psychological support plays a crucial role in helping individuals with MS manage their symptoms and reduce the associated anxiety. A study published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in managing the psychological impacts of MS, including 'awkward' episodes.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, it's not just the physical symptoms of MS that can be debilitating, but also the associated psychological impacts. A comprehensive approach to MS treatment should include psychological support to help individuals manage their symptoms, reduce anxiety, and improve their overall quality of life. As Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, emphasizes, "The emotional landscape of chronic illness is complex, and addressing these feelings is essential for enhancing the quality of life." Continued research in this area, such as that by Dr. Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist, is vital to understanding and addressing the full impact of MS.