Sensory issues are obviously a big aspect of being autistic.
The most common ones I see mentioned are:
Light sensitivity (i have this big-time)
Noise sensitivity (same)
Temperature sensitivity (I'm often cold even when others are fanning themselves and throwing windows open)
... and (the one I don't really have)... food textures. I like some foods, less so others, like most people. I skew towards the bland, mostly, as strong flavours/smells I find a bit much. But textures aren't much of a problem, unless I get a hard chip or something rank like that.
But here's one that is so specific to me that it would be nice to know I'm not entirely unique in it: when I drink anything, it has to be hot or at least warm. Obviously no problem with tea. But even water I would boil the kettle and mix 70% hot water with 30% from the tap. Or I'll use the water boiler tap in work to do the same. Very occasionally (if I'm grudgingly out somewhere and it's less - not at all!- socially acceptable to be requesting a hot water from the bar - I'm tee-total) I will drink a cold water or coke. But I find the sensation very unpleasant. Like I can feel my throat muscles tighten up and - hard to describe and rationally I know it's not *quite* this- almost a sensation like germs waking up and getting to work. If that makes any sense!?
It seems to constrict my larynx as well I think. My voice is hoarser, more compromised, if
my throat's had to deal with cold liquids. I can even sometimes be left feeling like I've been gargling razor blades if I've had to spend an evening with cold drinks only and then had to talk at any length. Anyone recognise this? Or am I a one-off!?
