What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and How Does it Relate to Brain Function?

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is an increasingly common health issue that affects an individual’s ability to process information from the environment. This phenomenon not only impacts the senses but is also closely linked to brain function, where all sensations are processed and controlled. This article will explore what sensory processing disorder is, how it affects sensory processing, and how to better care for those affected.

1. What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving and processing information from the senses, such as sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. This can lead to abnormal responses to environmental stimuli.

There are several common types of SPD, each with its own set of symptoms, including:

• Sensory Overresponsivity: Individuals may have an exaggerated response to mild stimuli, such as sounds or lights.
• Sensory Underresponsivity: Individuals may not react or may show a weak response to stimuli, such as not feeling pain or not noticing surrounding sounds.
• Sensory Discrimination Disorder: Individuals may have difficulty distinguishing between sensory inputs, such as not being able to differentiate between objects by touch.

Common symptoms of SPD include:

• Difficulty tolerating noise or light.
• Strong reactions to light touches or temperature changes.
• Lack of attention or slow responses to stimuli.
• Difficulty engaging in activities that require motor coordination.

Understanding sensory processing disorder is essential to support affected individuals and help them adapt better to their surroundings.

2. Does Sensory Processing Disorder Affect Brain Function? Why and How?

Does Sensory Processing Disorder affect brain function? Yes, SPD can influence brain function, as it directly relates to how the brain processes sensory information. In SPD, the brain struggles to accurately receive or analyze sensory data, leading to difficulties in responding appropriately to environmental stimuli.

2.1. How Does SPD Affect Brain Function?

• Disruption of Sensory Information Regulation: To respond to sensory stimuli (such as light, sound, smell, taste, or physical sensations), the brain must process and regulate signals from sensory organs. When someone has SPD, the brain fails to properly analyze or coordinate these signals. This may cause the person to feel overwhelmed or fail to register sensory input correctly.
• Impact on Attention and Learning: When sensory information is processed incorrectly, it can lead to stress or confusion, making it difficult for individuals to focus on tasks or learn effectively. They may become easily distracted by environmental factors that others may not notice, such as loud noises or bright lights.
• Difficulty with Communication: Because of the disruptions in sensory processing, individuals with SPD may struggle to understand or respond to social cues (such as body language, facial expressions, or sounds in a conversation), which can cause communication and social relationship challenges.

2.2. How Does SPD Occur?

SPD is often associated with an imbalance in how sensory information is processed. The brain may be overly sensitive to certain stimuli (leading to overwhelm) or not sensitive enough (resulting in an inability to notice important stimuli). Symptoms of sensory processing disorder may include:

• Hyper-Sensitivity Syndrome: Some individuals may find certain environmental factors, such as noise, light, or touch, to be extremely uncomfortable.
• Hypo-Sensitivity Syndrome: On the other hand, some individuals may fail to recognize typical sensory stimuli, such as not feeling hunger, fatigue, or surrounding sensations.

Research indicates that SPD may impact how areas of the brain communicate with each other, particularly areas related to sensation and motor control. This can slow the development of social, communication, learning, and motor skills. Studies at UCSF have shown that the structure and connectivity of the brain in individuals with SPD can differ from those without this disorder.

Effects of SPD:

• Difficulty Regulating Emotions: Individuals with SPD may have strong or unexpected emotional reactions to stimuli that others find normal. This may lead to feelings of anxiety, anger, or depression.
• Learning and Development Challenges: SPD can affect learning ability because individuals may struggle to focus or understand lessons, especially in environments with excessive sensory input.

In summary, sensory processing disorder not only affects the senses but also has a profound impact on the brain’s ability to control, communicate, and develop.

3. How are Sensory Processing Disorders Related to Psychological Issues?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can be directly related to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation difficulties. When the sensory system fails to process environmental stimuli correctly, individuals with SPD may feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. This can lead to behaviors such as overreaction or indifference, and cause difficulties in communication and social development.

• Anxiety and Depression: SPD can cause individuals to feel isolated and uncomfortable, leading to psychological issues such as anxiety and depression.
• Difficulty with Emotional Regulation: People with SPD may struggle to regulate their emotions and respond appropriately in social situations.
• Hyperactivity and Attention Deficits: SPD can cause symptoms similar to ADHD, making it difficult for individuals to focus or stay on task.

Research shows that SPD may disrupt the connection between brain regions associated with sensory processing and emotional regulation, contributing to psychological problems.

4. How Can Sensory Processing Disorder Be Treated or Improved?

Treatment for sensory processing disorder mainly focuses on improving the brain’s ability to process sensory information and helping individuals adapt to environmental stimuli. Below are some effective treatment methods:

4.1. Sensory Integration Therapy

• Goal: Help individuals with SPD learn how to process and respond to sensory stimuli appropriately.
• Implementation: This therapy includes exercises designed to help the brain improve its ability to receive and process sensory information. It is usually performed by an occupational therapist (OT).
• Example: Playing with materials of different textures, using bounce toys, or engaging in physical activities that help improve sensory regulation.

4.2. Behavioral Interventions

• Goal: Improve inappropriate behaviors caused by difficulties in processing sensory information.
• Implementation: Behavioral strategies are used to help children cope with stressful situations, reduce overreactions, and learn to manage emotions. Exercises may include teaching children how to reduce anxiety or respond appropriately in social situations.

4.3. Environmental Modifications

• Goal: Reduce stressors or sensory overload.
• Implementation: Create a quiet environment with soft lighting and minimal noise. Using noise-canceling headphones or creating a peaceful space can help reduce the stress caused by environmental stimuli.

4.4. Use of Support Tools

• Goal: Help individuals with SPD process sensory stimuli more effectively.
• Implementation: Support tools may include sensory gloves, tactile toys, or textured materials that help stimulate the senses in a controlled and appropriate manner.

4.5. Education and Training for Families

• Goal: Help families understand SPD and support children or individuals with SPD in daily situations.
• Implementation: Parents are trained to recognize SPD signs and learn how to respond and create an environment conducive to development. This helps reduce stressful situations and supports the child’s growth.

4.6. Medication

• Goal: Treat related symptoms such as anxiety or depression.
• Implementation: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medication to address psychological issues such as anxiety or ADHD that accompany SPD. However, medication should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.

4.7. Proper Nutrition

• Goal: Improve brain function and the nervous system.
• Implementation: Providing a balanced diet that includes omega-3s, vitamin B, and minerals can support nerve function and alleviate symptoms of SPD.

Treatment for SPD involves a combination of methods, including behavioral therapy, environmental changes, and support tools. It is important to customize treatment for each individual and to receive support from family, therapists, and doctors to achieve the best results. Additionally, some therapies to help “rejuvenate” the nervous system and delay its aging could be a safe preventive approach to this issue.

Reference sources: healthline.com – pennstatehealth.org – webmd.com