Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? Perhaps you have noticed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives speaking when they are listing tasks to be done. Of course, we are joking; however, there are lots of reasons why it becomes hard to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and explore possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Females and young individuals often have voices that are higher in pitch, and this can influence how clearly they are able to communicate for people with difficulty hearing high frequencies. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
A person might observe they can pick up on faint noises, yet struggle to make out what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. Women have 165 to 255 Hz, while men have 85 to 180 Hz.
High-frequency hearing loss can make it difficult to hear consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound muddled.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Birds chirping
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that bring about hearing loss at higher sound pitches?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing issue. Moreover, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells found in the inner ear can lead to increased trouble in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
If you have attended loud concerts and had substantial noise exposure from work or the environment, it can be a factor. Other risk factors include genetics, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is connected as well.
If children have high-frequency hearing loss, it can impede their speech and language skill development. For older adults, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
While high-frequency hearing loss is permanent, using hearing aids can considerably improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by increasing their volume, resulting in a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
An improved experience can be attained in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or talking with your grandchild. 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 advantage.
Schedule a consultation if you think you may be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.