Why is it more difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices? Maybe you have noticed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives talking when they are listing tasks to be done. Of course, we are kidding; however, there are lots of 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.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Women and children have a tendency to have higher-pitched voices, which can impact their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most prevalent type of hearing loss.
Somebody might report that they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand why hearing their children or grandchildren is difficult. Women have 165 to 255 Hz, while men have 85 to 180 Hz.
Difficulty in hearing specific consonants in speech, like t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, as a result of high-frequency hearing loss can result in unclear speech.
In addition, the following sounds would be challenging to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the intrinsic factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound pitches?
Age-related hearing loss may include this hearing problem. Moreover, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can result in increased difficulty 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 drugs including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also related.
If kids have high-frequency hearing loss, it can hamper their speech and language skill development. For older adults, it can include the danger 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 amplify high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
Attending a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be improved. Most contemporary hearing devices can link to your mobile phone and come equipped with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Book an appointment if you think you have high-frequency hearing loss.