Hypersensitivity

Heightened response to sensory input—one of the most common autism experiences.

"When I say the fluorescent lights hurt, I mean they are literally hurting me." — Autistic adult

Common Hypersensitivities

Sound: Background noise, sudden sounds feel painful.

Light: Fluorescent lights cause headaches.

Touch: Clothing tags, certain fabrics feel painful.

Smell: Perfumes trigger nausea.

Taste: Mixed textures cause gag reflex.

Misophonia

Intense distress from specific trigger sounds—chewing, breathing, keyboard clicking.

"It's not the volume—it's THAT sound." — Autistic adult

Extreme Music as Regulation

"Death metal calms me down. The predictable patterns in the chaos." — Autistic adult

Controlled, chosen sensory input drowns out unpredictable noise.

Clothing Modifications

Removing tags, cutting necklines, buying multiple copies of tolerable items. Not fussiness—necessity.

Light Sensitivity

FL-41 tinted glasses, sunglasses indoors—all valid accommodations.

Hypersensitivity isn't just challenge—heightened senses can mean music appreciation and noticing details others miss.

Related: Sensory Toolkit for management strategies.