Sensory processing disorders are common in autistic individuals, with over 90% experiencing some form of sensory difference or difficulty. However, sensory issues are not exclusive to autism. An estimated 5-16% of children without autism have sensory processing disorders. So yes, it is possible to have a sensory disorder without being autistic.
What are sensory processing disorders?
Sensory processing disorders refer to difficulties regulating responses to sensory input. This includes hypersensitivities, hyposensitivities, and sensory seeking behaviors. For example, someone with a sensory processing disorder may be overly sensitive to sounds, textures, tastes, or smells that most people can tolerate. Or they may crave sensory input such as deep pressure.
When sensory processing abilities are disordered, it can substantially impact daily life. Sensory stimuli that are generally harmless may cause extreme distress or discomfort. As a result, those with sensory processing disorders often have trouble with social interactions, emotional regulation, and behavior.
Common signs of sensory processing disorders
Hypersensitivities
– Overly sensitive to sounds, textures, tastes, smells, or visual input
– Bothered by sensory stimuli most people find unnoticeable or tolerable
– Discomfort or pain from things like labels in clothing, backgrounds noises, food textures
– Easily overwhelmed by environments with a lot of sensory input like malls
– Distracted or distressed by sensory stimuli
Hyposensitivities
– Underreactive to sensory stimuli
– Often seeks out intense sensory experiences such as loud music, spinning, deep pressure
– Frequently unaware of pain, temperature, or other sensory input
– High pain tolerance
– Enjoys smells, textures, or sounds others find overpowering
– Seeks sensory stimulation through chewing, tapping, rocking, etc.
Sensory seeking behaviors
– Frequently engages in sensory activities like chewing gum, twirling hair, rocking, spinning
– Craves sensory input such as deep pressure, strong tastes, bright lights, loud music
– Fails to notice noxious or dangerous stimuli due to focus on preferred sensations
– Distressed if unable to engage in sensory seeking behaviors
Sensory disorders in autistic vs. non-autistic individuals
While sensory processing issues frequently co-occur with autism, key differences emerge when comparing autistic and non-autistic individuals:
Prevalence
– Around 90% of autistic people experience sensory processing differences, compared to just 5-16% of the general population.
Number of senses affected
– Autistic individuals commonly have sensory issues related to multiple senses, whereas non-autistic people more often have difficulty with only one sense.
Impact on development
– Sensory symptoms typically emerge early in infancy or childhood for autistic children. In non-autistic children, onset is more variable.
Severity
– Sensory disorders tend to be more pervasive and cause greater impairment for those with autism. Sensory issues may only impact specific activities for non-autistic children.
Coping strategies
– Autistic individuals often develop rigid coping strategies like restrictive diets or rituals. Non-autistic children generally learn compensatory strategies with greater flexibility.
Comorbidity with other disorders
While sensory processing disorders frequently occur in isolation among non-autistic individuals, they commonly co-occur with other neurodevelopmental conditions in autistic people. These include:
– ADHD – problems with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity
– Anxiety disorders – excessive fear, worry, avoidance
– Depressive disorders – prolonged sadness, disinterest in activities, hopelessness
– Intellectual disability – limitations in cognitive function and adaptive behavior
Research indicates autistic individuals with sensory processing disorders are more likely to have a co-occurring diagnosis than autistic individuals without sensory differences. Sensory symptoms may worsen challenges with social skills, communication, behavior, and cognitive function.
Causes
The underlying reasons for sensory processing disorders are still unclear, but several theories exist:
Neurological differences
Evidence suggests autistic individuals and those with sensory processing disorders may have key differences in the structure and functioning of the brain regions involved in sensory processing:
– Amygdala – processes emotions and sensory information
– Hippocampus – integrates sensory input
– Prefrontal cortex – filters sensory information
– Brain connectivity – communication between sensory areas
Structural or connectivity differences in these regions could alter sensory processing and cause symptoms.
Genetic factors
Research shows sensory processing disorders tend to run in families, indicating a potential genetic basis. People with sensory issues are more likely to have a close relative with similar difficulties. Specific genes involved remain unknown.
Prenatal environment
Prenatal or perinatal complications may contribute to sensory processing disorders in some cases. Exposure to alcohol, infections, or toxins during pregnancy could impact early brain development. Premature birth or birth trauma may also play a role.
Temperament
Innate temperament partially determines peoples’ reactivity and sensitivity to sensory stimuli. Children with sensory disorders tend to be highly sensitive and prone to distress when overwhelmed. Genetics and environment likely shape individual sensory thresholds.
Assessment and diagnosis
Comprehensive evaluation by an occupational therapist, developmental pediatrician, neurologist, or psychiatrist experienced with sensory issues is recommended for diagnosis. Assessment components may include:
– Developmental history – milestones, sensory symptoms, behaviors
– Physical exam – identify other conditions potentially contributing to symptoms
– Questionnaires – severity and type of sensory difficulties
– Sensory assessments – measure responses to various sensory stimuli
– Motor assessments – evaluate coordination and fine/gross motor skills
– Cognitive testing – assess developmental functioning level
– ADL assessment – determine impact on activities of daily living
Based on assessment findings, specific sensory processing disorders may be diagnosed such as sensory modulation disorder, sensory discrimination disorder, or sensory-based motor disorder.
Treatment
Various therapeutic approaches aim to improve functioning for those with sensory processing disorders:
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy using a sensory integration approach is the mainstay of treatment. Key techniques include:
– Sensory diets – controlled sensory experiences to help regulate the nervous system
– Modulating activities – adapting tasks to child’s optimal arousal level
– Sensorimotor therapy – playful activities to improve sensory processing and motor skills
– Visual supports – pictures, schedules, social stories to make environments more predictable
Behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy and behavioral interventions help children manage their reactions to sensations and develop coping strategies.
School accommodations
Providing accommodations tailored to the child’s needs can facilitate learning and participation. Examples include noise-cancelling headphones, flexible seating, sensory breaks, modified lighting or acoustics, and access to sensory tools.
Medications
While there are no medications designed specifically for sensory disorders, certain medications may help manage co-occurring conditions like anxiety, ADHD or behavioral issues exacerbated by sensory difficulties.
Living with sensory processing disorders
While sensory processing disorders cannot be cured, various strategies make life more manageable for those affected:
– Avoid sensory overload when possible
– Create a low-stimulation space at home to retreat to
– Use noise-cancelling devices, sunglasses, or headphones when needed
– Incorporate heavy work and sensory diets into daily routines
– Practice calming strategies like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation
– Join support groups to connect with others experiencing sensory issues
– Educate family, friends, and colleagues about your sensory needs
– Work with your child’s school to implement appropriate accommodations
– Be patient, flexible, and compassionate with yourself or your child
– Celebrate small victories and focus on progress over perfection
With the right supports in place, those with sensory differences can find ways to thrive. While coping with sensory disorders presents challenges, it does not prevent someone from living a fulfilling, meaningful life.
Conclusion
In summary, sensory processing disorders are common among autistic individuals but also occur in a subset of neurotypical children. Both groups experience hypersensitivities, hyposensitivities, and sensory seeking behaviors that interfere with function. However, autistic children tend to have earlier onset, more pervasive symptoms, and greater developmental impact. While causes are still being investigated, evidence suggests neurological, genetic, and environmental factors contribute. With comprehensive evaluation and access to targeted interventions, children with sensory processing disorders can be supported to reach their full potential whether or not autism is present.
