Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information from the senses. This can lead to hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to stimuli such as sounds, textures, or lights.

Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder

Common signs of SPD include:

• Over-Responsiveness: Extreme reactions to sensory inputs, such as covering ears in response to normal sounds or avoiding certain textures.
• Under-Responsiveness: Lack of reaction to sensory stimuli, such as not noticing pain or not responding to loud noises.
• Seeking Sensory Input: Engaging in behaviors that provide sensory feedback, like excessive touching of objects or spinning.
• Motor Skill Challenges: Difficulties with coordination, balance, or fine motor tasks.

Sensory Processing Disorder vs. Autism

While SPD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can share sensory-related symptoms, they are distinct conditions:

• Autism: A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Sensory sensitivities are common but are part of a broader set of symptoms.
• SPD: Focuses solely on sensory processing issues without the social and communication challenges inherent to autism.

It’s important to note that SPD is not officially recognized as an independent diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Can You Have Sensory Processing Disorder Without Autism?

Yes, individuals can experience sensory processing difficulties without being on the autism spectrum. However, SPD is not officially recognized as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM-5; sensory differences are considered a symptom rather than a diagnosis.

Can You Grow Out of Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory processing issues can change over time. With appropriate interventions, individuals may develop coping strategies that help them manage sensory sensitivities more effectively. However, some may continue to experience sensory processing differences into adulthood.

What can Sensory Processing Disorder look like?

For individuals with autism or SPD, temperature changes can cause extreme discomfort due to how their sensory systems process these changes. For example, a child might scream when getting in and out of the bath, swimming pool, or when putting on cold clothes. This reaction is not behavioral but sensory-driven. Here’s what might be happening:

1. Hypersensitivity to Temperature: The nervous system may overreact to temperature stimuli. Changes in temperature—like the air feeling cold after a warm bath—can feel much more intense or shocking than for neurotypical individuals.
2. Sensory Overload: Sudden temperature changes involve a shift in the body’s sensory input, which can overwhelm the brain as it processes the stark contrast between warm and cold.
3. Fight-or-Flight Response: The discomfort may activate the autonomic nervous system, triggering a fight-or-flight response. This could explain the intense reaction, as the body perceives the temperature change as a threat or source of pain.
4. Proprioceptive and Interoceptive Challenges: Proprioception (body awareness) and interoception (internal body sense) may also play a role. The brain might interpret sensory signals differently, making the temperature change feel sudden and overwhelming.

How to Support Your Child with Temperature Sensitivities

If you’re reading this and going ‘Yes! This is my child!’ then I will add some ideas to support, bourne from years of experience and getting it wrong myself…

• Prepare for Transitions: Give advanced warnings before transitioning between different environments. For example, say, “We’re going to leave the bath now; it might feel a little chilly.”
• Layer Clothing: Wrap your child in warm towels or pre-heated clothes immediately after a bath or swimming to minimize the temperature difference.
• Slow Adjustments: Create gradual transitions in temperature, such as draining the bath slowly and wrapping your child in a warm towel before they step out.
• Use Warm Clothes or Items: Try towel warmers or pre-warmed clothing to reduce the contrast between warm and cold. I actually put my daughters clothes in her bed under her covers the night before so that they’re warmer when she wakes.
• Occupational Therapy: An occupational therapist trained in sensory integration can suggest activities and strategies to desensitize the sensory system over time.

NHS Pathway for Sensory Processing Disorder

In the UK, sensory processing difficulties are often addressed within broader neurodevelopmental services. Since SPD is not recognized as an independent diagnosis, the NHS may not offer specific pathways solely for SPD. Support is typically provided through occupational therapy services, especially for children exhibiting sensory challenges. For example, some NHS trusts offer sensory processing workshops for parents and carers to equip them with knowledge and skills to support their children. I have found however that the school of life and speaking to other parents has given me so much more help than anything else.

Can Sensory Processing Disorder Be Cured?

There is no cure for sensory processing difficulties, but individuals can learn to manage and adapt to their sensory needs. Interventions often involve occupational therapy focusing on sensory integration techniques to help individuals respond more appropriately to sensory stimuli.

Further Resources

For more information and support, consider the following organizations:

• Sensory Integration Education: Offers training and resources on sensory integration and processing.
• National Autistic Society: Provides information on sensory differences within the context of autism.
• NHS Inform: Offers guidance on sensory processing issues and available support services.