Olfactory perception

Olfactory perception, or the sense of smell, is a well-known sense. Autisitic people may be hyper- or hypo- sensitive to scents.

Olfactory hypersensitivity

For hypersensitive individuals, they may smell something others barely notice, or have a stronger reaction to scents than others.

Scents may cause discomfort or pain, for example by triggering a strong gag reflex or migraines.

Workarounds

• Using unscented soap

Ways to compensate

Olfactory hyposensitivity

For hyposensitive individuals, they may not notice scents as readily as others, or simply may not respond to them as quickly.

Workarounds

Ways to compensate

Scent-based stims

• Scented candles

See also: stims