My meltdowns are getting worse - WTH?

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I am struggling more and more with sensory overload lately. My tolerance for noises is especially suffering and I often need to use earplugs just to get on with day to day tasks.

I also get emotionally overwhelmed more easily than usual. If, say, I don't know where to put something then I start to panic. If I can't find the dog's lead, I feel sick and shaky. Uncertainty is so much scarier right now than it used to be.

I guess it's normal to kind of regress when you're under a lot of pressure. I'm just frustrated because it's holding me back a lot.

I'm seeing my doctor again about my meds so there's a possibility that could be affecting me this way. However is this typical for you guys as well? Do you ever have periods where you seem to "regress" like this? If so, what has helped you cope and how can I explain to my loved ones what is going on?

You can't explain it to loved ones, because you don't know what is going on.

But, it seems that you were already dealing with some underlying stresses -- before the all the bells, whistles, blinking lights, or whatever sensory annoyance.

Yes, meltdowns are more likely when you are stressed.

And change is a major factor in stressing someone who is autistic.

Going to the Doctor may actually be counterproductive, as the logistics involved in getting to the doctor's office can be stressful. That time might be better spent doing something that reduces stress--or doing nothing at all--or maybe getting an extra hour or two of sleep.

So, besides strong smells, coarse textures, and parents, etc, what are your sources of stress.