Why is it more difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices? Perhaps you have noticed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives talking when they are listing tasks to be done. That’s a joke, but it is rather common for individuals to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s discover the reasons behind this and explore possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Women and children tend to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It’s the most prevalent form of hearing impairment.
Somebody might report that they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out why hearing their children or grandchildren is challenging. Women have 165 to 255 Hz, whereas men have 85 to 180 Hz.
High-frequency hearing loss can make it difficult to hear consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound muddled.
In addition, the following sounds would be challenging to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that bring about hearing loss at higher sound pitches?
Age-related hearing loss may include this hearing problem. What’s more, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells found in the inner ear can result in increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, such as those encountered at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the problem. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also related.
High-frequency hearing loss in children may impede the development of their speech and language skills. Older adults may face the possibility of experiencing dementia, depression, and falls.
Managing hearing loss in the higher frequencies
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but acquiring hearing aids helps boost high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the right setting for you.
Participating in a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be enhanced. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that allow for precise sound adjustment. As a perk, you’ll make your wife happy.
Schedule a consultation if you think you might be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.
