How Do Sensory Processing Differences Affect Smell Sensitivity in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Smell sensitivity in autism is a common yet often misunderstood Sensory Processing difference. Many autistic individuals experience heightened olfactory sensitivity, where even faint or everyday smells, like perfume, food, or cleaning products, can trigger strong emotional or physical reactions.

For those with smell sensitivity in autism, the brain amplifies smells, making them feel much more intense and often uncomfortable. This heightened response can lead to scent aversion, where certain smells are so overwhelming that the individual may avoid places or activities that expose them to those scents.

Common Symptoms of Smell Sensitivity in Autism

Here are some signs of olfactory sensitivity and the most effective ways to address them:

Strong reactions to specific smells

Scents like perfumes, food, or cleaning products may cause physical discomfort, like nausea or headaches. Gradual exposure through Sensory Integration Therapy or mindfulness techniques can help children develop tolerance. CBT and breathing exercises can also be helpful in managing anxiety linked to smells.

Avoiding certain environments due to scent aversion

Certain places like restaurants, stores, or public transport may be avoided because of strong scents. Environmental modifications, such as creating scent-free zones at home or using air purifiers, can help. Gradual exposure can also be used to increase tolerance in a controlled manner.

Refusal to eat certain foods due to smell

The smell of specific foods may cause gagging, anxiety, or food refusal. Feeding therapy or occupational therapy can work on reducing food aversion. Gradual exposure to new food textures and smells in a positive, low-pressure environment can support increased food acceptance.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on supporting olfactory sensitivity and managing scent aversion 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.