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Published on: 4/7/2025

Is There Any Connection Between Autism and Light Sensitivity?

Some studies suggest there may be a link between autism and light sensitivity, as changes in brain activity and sensory processing in autism might make some individuals more sensitive to bright lights.

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Explanation

Autism is a condition that sometimes comes with extra sensitivity to sights and sounds. Research has shown that many children with autism may be extra sensitive to light. In one study, light patterns were seen to trigger unusual brain waves (called photosensitivity) in some children, which can sometimes lead to seizures. Another study looked at how light and color in the places where autistic children live can change their behavior. This means that the way light works in the eye and brain for some people with autism may be different from others. Because of these differences, bright or flickering lights might feel uncomfortable or hurt their eyes. It is important to note that not every person with autism will have problems with light sensitivity, but it is more common in some individuals due to the unique way their brain processes sensory information. If someone with autism is having trouble with light, talking to a doctor or a specialist can help figure out ways to make their environment more comfortable.

(References)

  • Madaan P, Jauhari P, Luhar ZM, Chakrabarty B, Gulati S. Autism, Epilepsy, and Neuroregression: Photosensitivity on Electroencephalography Solved the Riddle. Clin EEG Neurosci. 2020 Nov;51(6):399-402. doi: 10.1177/1550059419899327. Epub 2020 Jan 6. PMID: 31903771.

  • Nair AS, Priya RS, Rajagopal P, Pradeepa C, Senthil R, Dhanalakshmi S, Lai KW, Wu X, Zuo X. A case study on the effect of light and colors in the built environment on autistic children's behavior. Front Psychiatry. 2022 Nov 30;13:1042641. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1042641. PMID: 36532166; PMCID: PMC9748440.

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