Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? As proof, maybe you have noticed that some men say they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are repeating the “to-do” list. That’s a joke, but it is rather common for individuals to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and explore possible solutions.
Exploring the effects of hearing loss at high frequencies
Females and young people frequently have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can influence how clearly they are able to communicate for people who have difficulty hearing high frequencies. It’s the most prevalent form of hearing impairment.
A person may notice they can pick up on faint noises, yet struggle to make out what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. 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, 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-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the intrinsic factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing issue. 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.
Prolonged exposure to loud noises, including those experienced at concerts or in loud workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the problem. Other factors that increase risk include heredity, particular drugs including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is connected as well.
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.
Managing hearing loss in the higher frequencies
While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, utilizing 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 set your hearing aids at the right setting for you.
Attending a business meeting, talking on 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 enable precise sound adjustment. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Book an appointment if you think you have high-frequency hearing loss.