How Do Sensory Processing Differences Affect Pain Perception in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Pain perception in autism is a complex Sensory Processing difference. Many autistic individuals experience pain in ways that differ from neurotypical patterns, sometimes reacting strongly to mild discomfort, and other times showing little response to injuries or health issues.

This variation is linked to both heightened and dulled sensory sensitivity. For example, someone may cry out from a small bump yet not notice a serious cut. Others may have difficulty describing what hurts or recognising the cause of their pain. These differences in pain perception in autism can lead to underreporting or miscommunication, making diagnosis and care more challenging.

Understanding these patterns is essential for caregivers, teachers, and healthcare providers to respond appropriately and avoid overlooking serious issues.

Common Signs of Altered Pain Perception in Autism

Below are a few indicators of pain-related sensory differences and how to support them:

Underreacting to injury or illness

A child might not notice or report pain from things like scrapes, fevers, or dental problems. Routine body checks and visual pain scales can help assess discomfort. Teaching body awareness through visual tools can improve reporting.

Overreacting to mild discomfort

Things like tight clothing, small bruises, or light touches may cause intense reactions. Identifying and minimising discomfort responses using sensory-friendly clothing and environments can reduce distress. CBT and occupational therapy may support coping.

Difficulty expressing or localising pain

Individuals may struggle to explain what is wrong or how much it hurts. Using simple communication aids and structured questioning can make it easier to recognise and address pain effectively.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on supporting sensory sensitivity and managing discomfort response in daily life.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.