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 lots of reasons why it becomes hard to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s find out why, and what you can do about it.
Understanding 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.
Somebody may say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out why hearing their children or grandchildren is difficult. The normal 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 harder 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 difficult to hear:
- Birds chirping
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
This issue is often part of age-related hearing loss. Moreover, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can lead to 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 risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is related as well.
High-frequency hearing loss in kids 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.
Dealing with hearing loss in the higher frequencies
While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, utilizing hearing aids can substantially improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by boosting their volume, producing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
Participating in a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be enhanced. Most contemporary hearing devices can stream to your mobile phone and come equipped with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Schedule a consultation if you believe you may be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.