Why is it more difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices? Maybe you have observed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives talking when they are detailing tasks to be done. That’s a joke, but it is fairly common for individuals to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s figure out why, and what you can do about it.
Comprehending high-frequency hearing loss
Women and children have a tendency to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anybody with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
Someone may say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out why hearing their children or grandchildren is challenging. The typical frequency range for women is between 165 and 255 Hz, while for men it is between 85 and 180 Hz.
Difficulty in hearing specific consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, as a result of high-frequency hearing loss can lead to unclear speech.
In addition, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
This problem is often an element of age-related hearing loss. Additionally, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear may become damaged, and this makes it harder to hear high-pitched sounds.
If you frequented loud concerts and had excessive noise exposure from work or the environment, it can play a part. Other factors that contribute to risk include heredity, particular drugs including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also connected.
High-frequency hearing loss in children may impede the development of their speech and language skills. For older adults, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but acquiring hearing aids helps amplify high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
Participating in a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be improved. Most modern hearing devices can stream to your mobile phone and come outfitted with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. Your wife will be pleased as an added advantage.
Schedule a consultation if you believe you may be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.