Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? Maybe you have observed 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 many reasons why it becomes hard to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s figure out why, and what you can do about it.
Delving into the effects of hearing loss at high frequencies
Women and children tend to have higher-pitched voices, which can impact their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It’s the most prevalent type of hearing impairment.
A person might observe they can pick up on faint noises, yet struggle to hear 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.
Trouble in hearing specific consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, due to high-frequency hearing loss can lead to unclear speech.
Here are a few other sounds that might be difficult to detect or hear clearly.
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
This issue can be part of age-related hearing loss. In addition, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear may become damaged, and this makes it harder to hear high-pitched sounds.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, such as those experienced at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the problem. Other factors that contribute to risk include heredity, particular medicines such as aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is connected as well.
High-frequency hearing loss in children could impede the development of their speech and language skills. 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 irreversible, using hearing aids can substantially improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by boosting their volume, producing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.
Attending a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be improved. Most modern hearing devices can stream to your mobile phone and come outfitted with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. As a bonus , you’ll make your wife happy.
Book an appointment if you think you have high-frequency hearing loss.