ADHD vs. Sensory Processing Disorder: Differences and Overlapping Symptoms

ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) affect how a person thinks, feels, and acts in daily life. ADHD disrupts focus and impulse control, while SPD changes how you respond to sensory input. Both can make routines hard.

You might notice overlapping signs, like restlessness or difficulty focusing, but the causes and treatments differ. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Sensory Processing Disorder and ADHD, how to diagnose each, and the common treatments available.

1. Prevalence of ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder

ADHD is more widely recognized and diagnosed, while SPD's prevalence is debated, with some experts considering it a symptom rather than a standalone diagnosis.

ADHD Prevalence

About 11.4% of children aged 3–17 years in the US have been diagnosed with ADHD. Boys are twice as likely as girls to receive a diagnosis. ADHD also varies by region, with prevalence ranging from 6% to 16% across states.

Most children with ADHD have co-occurring conditions like anxiety or learning disabilities, affecting about 78% of cases.

SPD Prevalence

SPD affects 5–16% of children, but its standalone diagnosis is debated. It often co-occurs with:

• ADHD
• Autism
• Anxiety

Thus, it makes it challenging to determine the exact prevalence.

While not formally recognized in diagnostic manuals, SPD symptoms like sensory overload or under-responsiveness appear in many children with developmental disorders.

2. Symptoms of ADHD and SPD

ADHD primarily affects focus, impulsivity, and activity levels, while SPD involves over- or under-responsiveness to sensory stimuli. Both conditions present unique and extensive symptom sets.

ADHD Symptoms

ADHD symptoms are divided into inattentiveness and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Inattentiveness includes:

• Short attention span
• Easily distracted
• Forgetfulness or losing items
• Difficulty following instructions
• Trouble organizing tasks
• Frequent task-switching
• Avoiding tasks requiring sustained focus

Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms include:

• Restlessness or inability to stay seated
• Excessive fidgeting or movement
• Excessive talking
• Acting without thinking
• Interrupting conversations or activities
• Difficulty waiting turns
• Little or no sense of danger

In adults, symptoms include:

• Carelessness, poor organization, or missed deadlines
• Difficulty filtering distractions
• Impatience or mood swings
• Risky behaviors, such as dangerous driving
• Trouble managing stress and maintaining relationships

Note that ADHD sensory issues happen when your brain becomes overwhelmed by sights, sounds, or textures. For example, bright lights or loud noises might feel unbearable. These sensory triggers often make it harder for you to focus or stay calm.

For children, this can look like tantrums or hiding from the noise. As adults, you might feel anxious or agitated when overstimulated.

SPD Symptoms

SPD symptoms vary based on over-sensitivity (hyper-responsiveness) or under-sensitivity (hypo-responsiveness) to stimuli. Hyper-responsive individuals may:

• Avoid certain textures, clothing tags, or loud noises
• Cover ears or eyes
• Be easily startled or overwhelmed by lights and sounds
• Gag on certain food textures
• Have poor balance or appear clumsy
• Fear swings, heights, or certain motions
• Struggle with focus or motor coordination

Hypo-responsive individuals may:

• Seek thrill activities like jumping or spinning
• Chew objects or fingers
• Fail to notice their body’s state (e.g., dirty hands or a running nose)
• Ignore personal space or roughhouse frequently
• Constantly touch objects or move excessively

Adults with SPD may:

• Feel irritated by strong smells, tags, or noisy environments
• Struggle with multitasking or filtering distractions
• Experience frequent anxiety, overwhelm, or irritability
• Exhibit clumsiness or preference for certain textures or spaces
• Develop behaviors like avoiding crowds or excessively seeking sensory stimulation

3. Diagnosis of ADHD and SPD

ADHD diagnosis follows a formal process with strict criteria, while SPD relies on observational tools and reports. Both require input from specialists.

ADHD Diagnosis

Doctors evaluate ADHD using interviews, physical exams, and detailed reports from caregivers or teachers.

For children, symptoms must include six or more signs of inattentiveness or hyperactivity lasting at least six months. These symptoms must appear in at least two settings, like school and home, and start before age 12.

For adults, specialists check for childhood symptoms that persist into adulthood and cause significant challenges. Additional tools include reviewing school records or speaking to someone familiar with your childhood. They also rule out other mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression, that might mimic ADHD symptoms.

SPD Diagnosis

SPD diagnosis uses tools like:

• Sensory Profile: A standardized questionnaire completed by caregivers or individuals to assess sensory processing patterns and their impact on functional performance. It provides a detailed view of sensory preferences, sensitivities, and challenges across various settings.
• Short Sensory Profile: A shorter version of the Sensory Profile, designed for quick screening. It focuses on sensory processing issues that affect everyday activities, typically used for identifying potential SPD in children.
• Sensory Processing Measure: An assessment tool that evaluates sensory processing, praxis (motor planning), and social participation across home, school, and community environments.

Occupational therapists often lead these evaluations, relying on caregiver reports or self-assessments. For younger children, the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile identifies sensory issues early.

In some cases, advanced methods are used in research but not routine clinical diagnosis like:

• fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A neuroimaging technique that measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow.
• EEG (Electroencephalography): A method that records electrical activity of the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. It is used to study the timing and patterns of brain responses to sensory stimuli.
• MEG (Magnetoencephalography): A non-invasive imaging technique that measures magnetic fields produced by neuronal activity in the brain. It provides high temporal resolution for studying the timing of sensory processing.

Evaluations also include clinical observations and assessing how sensory responses impact daily life. Teams of specialists may collaborate to confirm the diagnosis and tailor interventions.

4. Treatment of ADHD and SPD

ADHD treatment focuses on managing symptoms through medication and therapy. SPD treatment is more on sensory regulation through individualized therapies and tools.

ADHD Treatment

Medications include:

• Methylphenidate
• Lisdexamfetamine
• Dexamfetamine
• Atomoxetine
• Guanfacine

These improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and calm hyperactivity. Side effects like sleep problems, reduced appetite, or irritability are closely monitored.

Therapy options include behavior therapy and psychoeducation, which help with emotional regulation and social skills. Parent training programs and school-based interventions support children by teaching strategies for attention and impulse control. Adults often benefit from CBT to manage work or relationship challenges.

SPD Treatment

SPD treatment uses sensory integration therapy, which includes activities to improve sensory responses, like:

• Swinging
• Tactile play
• Brushing

Therapists create personalized sensory diets with activities like deep-pressure therapy or movement breaks. These help balance sensory input and improve regulation

Other therapies include:

• Physiotherapy for motor skills
• Speech therapy for communication challenges
• Vision therapy for coordination issues

Tools like weighted vests, noise-canceling headphones, and fidget items support sensory needs.

Wrap Up

You might notice impulsivity, hyperactivity, or difficulty focusing in both ADHD and SPD, making it hard to tell them apart. ADHD mainly impacts attention and behavior, while SPD affects how someone responds to sensory input, like avoiding loud sounds or seeking touch. These differences matter when deciding on treatment strategies.

Diagnosing ADHD involves evaluating behavior across settings, like school and home. SPD diagnosis, on the other hand, uses tools like sensory profiles to assess responses to stimuli. ADHD treatments often include therapies for focus and emotional regulation, while SPD management focuses on sensory integration activities or tools. Identifying these conditions early can help you create a plan tailored to your child’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can SPD and ADHD occur together?

Yes, SPD often coexists with ADHD. Both conditions involve sensory and attention challenges, but they are distinct disorders requiring tailored approaches for management.

What therapies are available for SPD?

Therapies for SPD include sensory integration therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes physiotherapy. These are designed to improve sensory processing and help you or your child better respond to sensory input.

Are medications effective for ADHD?

Medications like methylphenidate and atomoxetine can help manage ADHD symptoms by improving focus and reducing impulsivity. However, they work best when combined with behavioral therapy.

Can adults have SPD?

Yes, adults can have SPD, often since childhood. Symptoms may include difficulty filtering sensory input, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed in crowded spaces.

What is a sensory diet?

A sensory diet is a personalized plan of activities that helps regulate sensory input. It may include physical activities, calming tools, or sensory-friendly spaces to improve focus and emotional balance.