What causes hypersensitivity to senses?
While anyone can experience sensory hypersensitivity, there are some conditions that make people more susceptible – including autism, sensory processing disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
What is hypersensitivity in sensory processing disorder?
One is oversensitivity (hypersensitivity). This leads to sensory avoiding — kids avoid sensory input because it’s too overwhelming. The other is undersensitivity (hyposensitivity). This causes kids to be sensory seeking — they look for more sensory stimulation.
How do you input sensory stimulation?
Sensory stimulation activities can include:
- Bringing in objects the senior doesn’t normally have around.
- Giving a gentle hand massage.
- Taking a short walk outdoors to provide a change of scenery.
- Talking or reading aloud to the senior.
- Organizing pets to come for visits.
- Cooking their favorite meal.
What is atypical response to sensory input?
Table 1
| Term | Definition in symptom research |
|---|---|
| Symptom | Atypical responses to sensory input that interfere with an individual’s daily functioning |
| Behavior | Observable reactions |
| Low threshold | Requires less sensory input to generate a typical response (referred to as low threshold to stimulation) |
Is hypersensitivity a mental illness?
Hypersensitivity — also known as being a “highly sensitive person” (HSP) — is not a disorder. It is an attribute common in people with ADHD.
Is hypersensitivity a disability?
Although high sensitivity is not defined as a disability, in much of our fast-paced, always-on culture, it can be disabling. If their environment is not adapted to their differently wired brains, highly sensitive people are at risk of developing mental and physical health problems.
What are examples of sensory stimuli?
A sensory stimulus is any event or object that is received by the senses and elicits a response from a person. The stimulus can come in many forms such as light, heat, sound, touch, as well as from internal factors. Unusual responses to sensory stimuli are typically referred to as hypo- or hypersensitive reactions.
In which conditions is sensory stimulation recommended?
A 2019 review found sensory integration therapy to be effective for autism spectrum disorder. Another study from 2018 backs up the intervention for children with special needs, Additionally, the American Occupational Therapy Association supports the intervention.