What Are Sensory Issues in Autism?

Sensory issues occur when the brain processes sensory information differently. This can involve:

• Hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness)

• Hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness)

• Sensory seeking behavior

• Difficulty integrating multiple sensory inputs

• Low tolerance for sensory unpredictability

Adults may learn to hide or mask these experiences, making them easy to overlook without a structured assessment.

Common Types of Sensory Differences in Adults with Autism 

1. Sensory Sensitivity (Hypersensitivity)

Adults who are hypersensitive may experience the environment as overwhelming or physically uncomfortable.

Common triggers:

• Bright lights or fluorescent lighting

• Loud, sudden, or continuous noise

• Strong smells (perfume, cleaning products)

• Certain textures in clothing or bedding

• Food textures or temperatures

• Visual clutter or busy environments

Examples in daily life:

• Avoiding crowded stores

• Difficulty working in open-office environments

• Wearing sunglasses indoors

• Feeling drained after social events

• Needing quiet time to decompress

2. Sensory Under-Responsiveness (Hyposensitivity)

In hyposensitivity, sensory input may feel muted or barely noticeable.

Adults may:

• Miss environmental cues

• Not respond to name or touch when focused

• Not notice pain or temperature changes

• Prefer very strong sensory input

Examples:

• Needing loud music to concentrate

• Seeking deep pressure (tight clothing, weighted blankets)

• Unintentionally using a loud voice

• Enjoying intense workouts or movement

3. Sensory Seeking Behaviors

Some adults seek additional sensory input for regulation, grounding, or stimulation.

Examples:

• Pacing or repetitive movement

• Touching certain textures

• Rocking or fidgeting

• Using chewing objects, gum, or crunchy snacks

• Enjoying strong scents or flavors

• Playing music repetitively

These behaviors are often misunderstood but serve an important self-regulatory function.

4. Sensory Overload

Sensory overload occurs when too much input is happening at once. Adults may become overwhelmed, anxious, or shut down.

Signs of sensory overload:

• Irritability or sudden exhaustion

• Difficulty processing speech

• Feeling "frozen" or mentally blank

• Needing to escape a situation

• Physical discomfort (head pressure, nausea, “static” feeling)

Common triggers:

• Busy stores

• Group conversations

• Workplaces with constant noise

• Social gatherings

• Unexpected changes or unpredictable environments

5. Difficulty Filtering Sensory Input

Adults may struggle to distinguish relevant from irrelevant sensory information.

This can look like:

• Hearing every sound in a room simultaneously

• Difficulty reading or working near background noise

• Being distracted by sensory details others don’t notice

• Taking longer to adapt to new environments

Many describe this as “not having a sensory filter”.

How Sensory Issues Affect Daily Life

At Work

Sensory issues can lead to:

• Trouble focusing in open office plans

• Needing noise-canceling headphones

• Sensory overwhelm during meetings

• Challenges with fluorescent lighting

• Difficulty with workplace smells (food, perfume, cleaning products)

Some adults seek workplace accommodations once they receive a diagnosis.

In Relationships

Sensory processing impacts:

• Tolerance for touch and physical affection

• Communication during sensory overwhelm

• Social stamina

• Emotional availability

Partners may misinterpret sensory needs as avoidance unless properly understood.

In Public Spaces

Common difficulties:

• Grocery stores

• Malls

• Concerts or sporting events

• Public transportation

• Restaurants with loud noise or strong smells

Many adults plan errands strategically to avoid overload.

At Home

Adults may create sensory-safe environments:

• Controlling lighting

• Using weighted blankets

• Choosing soft clothing

• Creating quiet rest spaces

• Using sound machines or air purifiers

This helps regulate sensory input and prevent burnout.

Masked Sensory Issues in Adults

Many autistic adults—particularly women—learn to mask or hide sensory discomfort. This can lead to:

• Chronic exhaustion

• Heightened anxiety

• Sensory burnout

• Delayed diagnosis

• Difficulty understanding one’s own needs

Masking may make outward signs less visible, but the internal experience remains significant.

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How Sensory Differences Are Assessed in Adults

A thorough autism assessment evaluates:

• Sensory history from childhood through adulthood

• Sensory triggers and coping strategies

• Sensory seeking and avoidance patterns

• Emotional responses to sensory input

• Impact on work, relationships, and daily routines

Measures, interviews, and behavioral observations help determine whether sensory differences fit within an autism diagnosis or another condition.

When to Seek an Autism Evaluation

An adult may benefit from an evaluation if they experience:

• Sensory overload in daily environments

• Rigid routines for comfort and predictability

• Difficulty functioning in groups or noisy places

• Persistent exhaustion from managing sensory input

• A lifelong pattern of sensory sensitivity or sensory seeking

Understanding sensory processing can lead to better self-regulation, improved relationships, and appropriate accommodations.

Book your consultation today to get answers!

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Relevant Resources:

Adult Virtual Autism Assessments

Autism vs. ADHD/Anxiety

Autism Testing by Age

Social Communication Disorder vs Autism 

Masking in Females with Autism

Common Misconceptions about Autism

What an Autism Diagnosis Means

Understanding an Autism Diagnosis

ADHD Child & Adult Evaluations

Why Choose a Virtual Autism Evaluation?

When to Seek an Autism Evaluation

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