Sensory integration therapy

⸻ Olfactory Oversensitivity in ASD Olfactory oversensitivity means the child is highly sensitive to smells — even mild or faint scents may feel overwhelming, unpleasant, or alarming. This happens due to differences in how the brain processes sensory information. ⸻ Common Signs & Behaviours Children with olfactory oversensitivity may show: 1. Strong reactions to mild smells • Covers nose or face • Says “bad smell” even when others don’t notice it • Moves away from the area immediately 2. Avoidance of certain environments • Kitchen, bathrooms, supermarkets • Crowded places with multiple mixed smells (mall, school cafeteria) 3. Food-related difficulties • Refuses foods with strong aromas (egg, fish, curries) • Rejects new foods due to smell • Gags or vomits when certain food is served 4. Difficulty with grooming-toileting • Strong reaction to perfumes, soaps, lotions • Avoids brushing teeth due to toothpaste smell • Avoids toilet due to bathroom odor 5. Emotional reactions • Anxiety before entering certain places • Meltdowns triggered by unexpected smells • Irritability or withdrawal in strong-smell environments ⸻ Possible Causes • Sensory processing differences in the brain • Hypersensitivity of the olfactory receptors • Overactivation of the limbic system (emotional center) • Previous negative experiences with certain smells ⸻ Management Strategies 1. Gradual Exposure (Desensitization) • Introduce mild smells slowly • Start with tolerable scents and gradually increase intensity • Use scent jars or smell kits 2. Environmental Modifications • Maintain odor-free spaces • Avoid strong perfumes at homeschool • Keep good ventilation in rooms 3. Use Neutral or Familiar Scents • Use mild, unscented soaps, detergents • Stick to preferred scented items for consistency 4. Coping Tools • Provide a scarf, mask, or tissue with a pleasant smell for the child to hold near nose • Allow breaks in overwhelming environments 5. Feeding Therapy Support • Start food exposure with similar-smelling items • Combine familiar aromas with new foods • Occupational therapy support if gagging persists ⸻ When to Seek Help • If the child’s daily routines (eating, grooming, school participation) are affected • If smell triggers meltdowns frequently