Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? Perhaps you have observed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives speaking 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 figure 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 impact their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It’s the most prevalent form of hearing impairment.
Someone might say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand 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.
Trouble in hearing certain consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, as a result of high-frequency hearing loss can result in unclear speech.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Birds chirping
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
Age-related hearing loss may include this hearing issue. What’s more, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can result in increased trouble in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
If you have attended 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, specific medicines including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also related.
If kids have high-frequency hearing loss, it can impede their speech and language skill development. For older people, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing 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. An audiologist can configure your hearing aids to meet your individual requirements.
An improved experience can be attained in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or engaging in conversations with your grandchild. Most modern hearing devices can link to your mobile phone and come equipped with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. As a bonus , you’ll make your wife happy.
Set up a consultation if you think you might be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.