Why is it more difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices? As proof, perhaps you have noticed that some men say they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are repeating the “to-do” list. That’s a joke, but it is fairly common for people to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s find out why, and what you can do about it.
Comprehending 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 type of hearing impairment. A person may notice they can pick up on faint noises, yet struggle to make out what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. The typical frequency range for women is between 165 and 255 Hz, while for men it is between 85 and 180 Hz.
High-frequency hearing loss can make it difficult to hear consonants in speech, including t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound jumbled.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that bring about hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
This problem can be part of age-related hearing loss. Additionally, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear may become damaged, and this makes it more difficult to hear high-pitched sounds.
If you have attended loud concerts and had excessive noise exposure from work or the environment, it can play a part. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is connected as well.
High-frequency hearing loss in children may impede the development of their speech and language skills. For older people, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, utilizing hearing aids can considerably improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by increasing their volume, resulting in a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. An audiologist can configure your hearing aids to meet your individual requirements.
Participating in a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be improved. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that allow for precise sound adjustment. As a bonus , you’ll make your wife happy.
Schedule a consultation if you believe you may be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.