Topic summary
Sensory overload

State of overwhelm caused by an excess of sensory input Medical conditionSensory overloadSpecialtyPsychiatrySymptomsIrritabilitypoor eye contactmuscle tensionsweatinginsomniarestlessnessaggressiondifficulty concentratingfatigueComplicationsSelf-harmdifficulties with social interactionsocial isolationavoidance of tasks or activitiesPreventionAvoid or limit intense sensory stimulationidentify triggers of sensory overloadTreatmentAccommodationsoccupational therapy Sensory overload is defined by the body's atypical neural reaction to stimuli; concisely, overload occurs when one or more of the body's physical senses experiences over-stimulation from the environment. Sensory overload is a common comorbidity in conditions such as ADHD, schizophrenia, and autism. Causes Sensory overload can result from the overstimulation of any of the body's senses. Hearing: high-volume noises or sounds from multiple sources, such as several people talking at once. Sight: bright lights, strobing lights, cluttered or closed-off spaces, or areas with excessive movement such as crowds. Smell: strong or unpleasant aromas. Taste: spicy, sour, or overpowering flavors of edible items. Touch: tactile sensations s