Sensory processing disorder or sensory issues are common challenges in autism. Sensory issues in autism differ from one person to another. Some people experience hypersensitivity or over-responsiveness, while others experience hyposensitivity or under-responsiveness. Most individuals with autism have a combination of both sensory issues.
People with high functioning autism and sensory issues experience challenges with communication and social interaction. They experience various sensory sensitivity issues that impact their daily lives and overall well-being.
Sensory issues in individuals with high functioning autism include,
Individuals with autism feel overly sensitive to specific sensory inputs. These include light wavelengths, bright lights, particular sounds and frequencies, textures, smell, and taste, which could be disturbing. Hypersensitivity results in sensory avoidance, where autistic people avoid such stimuli. It could lead to anxiety and meltdowns
Individuals feel under-responsive to specific sensory inputs. They find recognizing sensations such as illness, pain, hunger, or attraction to vibrant colors, bright lights, and loud noises challenging. Hyposensitivity results in sensory seeking. Autistic people seek sensory experiences such as repeatedly touching objects, spinning, vocalizing or jumping.
Understanding autism and sensory issues can reduce discomfort and allow autistic people to socialize, learn, and participate in the community. Accommodations mean using strategies to adapt to the environment and create new habits.
Sensory processing disorder, or SPD, is a condition in which people find it difficult to process the sensory signals from their brains. People with SPD have chronic difficulties that disturb their daily lives. While SPD is not a medical diagnosis, awareness of sensory sensitivity issues helps you understand why people react and whether they need support or accommodations.
Not all people with SPD have autism spectrum disorder, but SPD is a common condition in autistic people. Scientists have discovered that autistic people have altered neural connectivity in the roots of the brain, which challenges the intake, processing, and organization of environmental stimuli. The information is processed depending on the context and environment. The inconsistency in processing information makes it difficult for autistic people to respond appropriately.
How does your child experience sensory input? Understanding how they encounter the environment, their senses, and their processing helps your child deal with sensory challenges.
Consulting a professional pediatric neuroscience center in Dubai can help you better understand and guide your child’s handling of sensory inputs. Neuropedia provides comprehensive care for kids and adolescents with autism and efficient treatment for behavioral, developmental, neurological, and psychological disorders.
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