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 restating the “to-do” list. Obviously, we are joking; however, there are many reasons why it becomes difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s find out why, and what you can do about it.
Exploring the impacts of hearing loss at high frequencies
Women and children have a tendency to have higher-pitched voices, which can impact their speech clarity for anybody with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most prevalent type of hearing loss.
Someone might say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out why hearing their children or grandchildren is challenging. The normal frequency range for women is between 165 and 255 Hz, while for men it is between 85 and 180 Hz.
Trouble in hearing specific consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, due to high-frequency hearing loss can result in unclear speech.
Here are a few other sounds that may be hard to detect or hear clearly.
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
This problem can be part of age-related hearing loss. Moreover, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells found in the inner ear can result in increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Extended exposure to loud noises, such as those experienced at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the issue. Other risk factors include genetics, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also related.
High-frequency hearing loss in kids may hinder the development of their speech and language skills. For older people, it can include the danger of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but getting hearing aids helps amplify high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. An audiologist can program your hearing aids to meet your individual requirements.
Participating in a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be enhanced. Most contemporary hearing devices can link to your mobile phone and come outfitted with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. As a perk, you’ll make your wife happy.
Schedule a consultation if you think you might be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.
