Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? As proof, perhaps you have noticed that some men claim they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are repeating the “to-do” list. Obviously, we are joking; however, there are many 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
Females and young people often have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can impact how clearly they are able to communicate for people with difficulty hearing high frequencies. It is the most prevalent kind of hearing loss.
Somebody may report that 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.
Trouble in hearing specific consonants in speech, like t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, due to high-frequency hearing loss can lead to unclear speech.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing issue. Moreover, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can lead to increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Extended exposure to loud noises, including those encountered at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the problem. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also connected.
If children 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.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
While high-frequency hearing loss is permanent, utilizing hearing aids can considerably improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by boosting their volume, resulting in a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. A hearing specialist can set your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
Attending a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be improved. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that enable precise sound adjustment. As a bonus , you’ll make your wife happy.
Book an appointment if you suspect you have high-frequency hearing loss.