1. In Psychology and Medicine:
* Extreme sensitivity to stimuli: This means reacting strongly to things that most people wouldn't notice, or find irritating. For example, being very sensitive to loud noises, strong smells, or bright lights. This can be a symptom of several conditions, such as anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or autism spectrum disorder.
* Allergic reactions: A person with a hypersensitivity to a substance, like pollen or certain foods, will have a strong allergic reaction even when exposed to very small amounts.
2. In General Usage:
* Overly sensitive: This means being easily offended or hurt by things other people say or do. It often implies a lack of resilience and an exaggerated emotional response.
* Highly reactive: This describes someone who reacts strongly and emotionally to situations, even if the situation doesn't warrant such a strong reaction.
It's important to remember:
* "Hypersensitive" is not always a negative term. For example, it can describe someone who is very empathetic and understands others' emotions deeply.
* In a clinical context, "hypersensitivity" is often used to describe specific symptoms or conditions.
* The word can be used to describe both physical and emotional reactions.
If you're concerned about your own hypersensitivity, it's important to talk to a doctor or therapist to determine the cause and get appropriate support.