Autism is associated with hypersensitivity to sensory input, making sensory overload more likely. With attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory information competes for your brain's attention. This can contribute to symptoms of sensory overload.

What is sensory overload in autism?

Sensory Overload in Autism

Sensory overload involves more than just sounds. It can be any environmental stimulus that interferes with the stability of the environment. 2 In some cases, the individual can be so sensitive as to react adversely to sensations you might not even notice.

What does autistic sensory overload feel like?

Sensitivity Differences in Autism – Sensory Overload

Sensory Overload in people with autism means that their views are very sharp. For example, they pay attention to the fluffy pieces on the carpet or complain about airborne dust, they do not like bright lights, and they may even be afraid of extreme light flashes.