Sensory Processing Disorder
Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition in which multisensory input is not adequately processed in order to provide appropriate responses to the demands of the environment. It is characterized by persistent challenges with neurological processing of sensory stimuli that interfere with a persons ability to participate in everyday life. This can manifest in difficulties in organizing sensation coming from the body and the environment, leading to problems in productivity, leisure and play, or activities of daily living.
Symptoms and Causes
- Symptoms of sensory processing disorder can include being uncoordinated, bumping into things, being unable to tell where limbs are in space, and being hard to engage in conversation or play.
- Some children with sensory processing disorder may exhibit behaviors such as spinning without getting dizzy, not picking up on social cues, not recognizing personal space, seeking visual stimulation, having problems sleeping, and not recognizing when their face is dirty or nose is running.
- The causes of SPD are not fully understood, but there may be a genetic link, and some doctors believe there could be a link between autism and SPD.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Sensory processing disorder is not recognized as an official medical diagnosis, but it is accepted in the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-3R) .
- Treatment for sensory processing problems is called sensory integration, with the goal of challenging a child in a fun, playful way so they can learn to respond appropriately and function more normally.
In conclusion, sensory processing disorder is a condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information, and it can have a significant impact on a persons daily life. While it is not officially recognized as a distinct medical diagnosis, it is important for individuals exhibiting symptoms of SPD to seek evaluation and potential treatment options.
