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Holiday Sensory Overload: How do you manage?
Managing sensory overload during the holidays or other social settings can be challenging. Due to Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS), my brain receives louder messages from my body and surrounding stimuli. I have sensitized sensors that over-react to light, sound, smell, taste, temperature, movement and touch. That being said, comfort and control may not be easy in all settings, especially holiday gatherings where there are multiple people talking, laughing and joking. Music playing, mixtures of aromas from food, candles and perfumes, along with a spectacle of lights and temps. Not to mention stress alone from the hustle and bustle.
I would love to hear how you have worked towards controlling sensory overload? What tips can you share that helped you be more comfortable in social settings that produce sensory overload?
MODERATOR'S NOTE
The knowledge exchange shared in this discussion helped to create this article written for the Mayo Clinic app and website. Knowledge for patients by patients and beyond Mayo Clinic Connect.
– Sensory overload? Try these tips for socializing https://www.mayoclinic.org/connected-care/sensory-overload-try-these-tips-for-socializing/cpt-20525812
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@loribmt Thank you very much for your help!
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1 Reaction@yellowdoggirl Thank you for the private message. Will you let me know the outcome of your next neurology appointment, and whether you bring up central sensitization?
@rwinney, Yes, but it isn't until April. That's how long it takes.
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1 ReactionHey there @yellowdoggirl Just checking in to see how things are going as you continue to wait for your April neurology appointment. It's getting closer!
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2 ReactionsAha! They had a cancellation and had emg tests. Nothing over 0.1 from
" normal" so what explains these random sharp nerve pains?
Are they going say "conversion disorder"?
Odd to be hoping for a disorder diagnosis.
@yellowdoggirl Not totally odd. I understand the feeling of wanting a diagnosis so your can know once and for all, and get on with managing that diagnosis. What are your next steps?
Maybe Arachnoiditis? Sudden sharp pains in random places, plus constant burning foot and leg pain? High sensitivity to perfumes and strong odors?
ANS testing in a week or two. I think there will be nothing abnormal found as EMG tests showed that, but doesn't explain my experience of it. I am kind of giving up on finding anything since it seems not to matter anyway.
At least we aren't in Ukraine.
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1 Reaction@yellowdoggirl I know it's frustrating. My only offering to you is the knowledge of Central Sensitization Syndrome, which we spoke of prior. It only matters to have understanding so that one can settle their mind, find acceptance, and a path forward of management. It's draining to keep searching and searching and I understand the feeling of giving up. Instead of giving up, for me, I prefer to think of it as finding acceptance and understanding that I have CSS and now know how to manage, to the best of my ability.
I wish you the best in finding your acceptance and positive path forward. Will you please keep me posted on your progress?
Touche! We are very lucky people to be free. 🙏🍀
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4 ReactionsI will see the neurologist once more, I think, and the rheumatologist next week so I can ask them about CSS then.
Who would be the best person to diagnose this?