Olfactory over sensitivity and sensory therapy

Olfactory Oversensitivity (Hyperosmia) – Signs and Indicators:

Children or individuals with olfactory oversensitivity experience an exaggerated reaction to smells that others may find mild or pleasant. This can affect attention, mood, and behavior.

Here are common signs and symptoms:

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🔹 Behavioral Signs
• Avoids places with strong odors (kitchen, bathroom, cafeteria, etc.)
• Covers nose or mouth frequently
• Complains or comments often about smells others don’t notice
• Becomes irritable, anxious, or upset in environments with perfumes, cleaning agents, or food smells
• Moves away from people wearing perfume or scented lotions
• Refuses certain activities (e.g., art with markers, cooking) due to smell sensitivity

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🔹 Physical or Emotional Reactions
• Nausea or gagging when exposed to certain smells
• Headaches or dizziness from odors
• Facial grimacing or expressions of disgust
• Sudden mood change (from calm to angry, anxious, or tearful) in smelly environments

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🔹 Daily Routine Impact
• Difficulty eating due to smell of food
• Avoids personal hygiene products (soap, shampoo, toothpaste) due to their scent
• Trouble focusing in classrooms or therapy rooms with air fresheners or cleaning smells

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🔹 Common Triggers
• Perfumes, deodorants, lotions
• Food smells (especially spices, fish, onions, eggs)
• Cleaning products or detergents
• Paint, markers, glue
• Garbage or bathroom odors

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🔹 In Autism or Sensory Processing Disorder
• May lead to meltdowns or avoidance behaviors
• Can interfere with feeding, grooming, and social participation
• Often co-exists with other sensory sensitivities (auditory, tactile, or visual)

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