Why is it harder 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. Obviously, we are joking; however, there are lots of reasons why it becomes hard to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s discover the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Women and children tend to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anybody with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most prevalent kind of hearing loss.
A person might 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:
- Birds chirping
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
This issue can be part of age-related hearing loss. Additionally, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear can become damaged, and this makes it more difficult to hear high-pitched sounds.
Extended exposure to loud noises, such as those encountered at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also contribute to the problem. Other factors that increase risk include heredity, specific medicines including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Heart disease is related as well.
If children have high-frequency hearing loss, it can hamper their speech and language skill development. Older people may face the danger of experiencing dementia, depression, and falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, utilizing hearing aids can substantially improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by boosting their volume, resulting in a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. An audiologist can program your hearing aids to meet your specific needs.
Attending a business meeting, using 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. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Schedule a consultation if you believe you may be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.