a background on sensory problems generally

• Sensory processing disorder
• Sensory integration therapy
• Sensory overload

Those articles frame the issue from a neurobiological standpoint. However, a key point is that science understands these issues very little right now. I have had some doctors suggest that I consider that it could have a psychological origin (eg. trauma, PTSD, or many other things), so I am exploring both possibilities right now (neurobiological and psychological).

The best academic summary I've found is an 2012 policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics:

"it is unclear whether children who present with sensory-based problems have an actual 'disorder' of the sensory pathways of the brain or whether these deficits are characteristics associated with other developmental and behavioral disorders. Because there is no universally accepted framework for diagnosis, sensory processing disorder generally should not be diagnosed. Other developmental and behavioral disorders must always be considered, and a thorough evaluation should be completed. Difficulty tolerating or processing sensory information is a characteristic that may be seen in many developmental behavioral disorders, including autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, developmental coordination disorders, and childhood anxiety disorders.

"Occupational therapy with the use of sensory-based therapies may be acceptable as one of the components of a comprehensive treatment plan. However, parents should be informed that the amount of research regarding the effectiveness of sensory integration therapy is limited and inconclusive."

(emphasis mine)

So I'm moving forward slowly, aware that science doesn't understand it very well yet. But it's a persistent problem that causes distress many times a day, so it's something that I really have to address.

what specific issues do I have?

I have fairly strong problems with touch defensiveness and sound defensiveness. (certain touch or sound sensations will cause me to pull away from them, when most people could tolerate those sensations). I have mild sensitivity to light, but it's not as severe, and it doesn't cause nearly as much distress in normal daily life as the sound and touch do.