Why is it more difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices? As proof, perhaps you have noticed that some men say they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are restating the “to-do” list. Obviously, we are joking; 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.
Delving into the impacts of hearing loss at high frequencies
Women and children have a tendency to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anybody with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most common kind of hearing loss.
Somebody may say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out why hearing their children or grandchildren is challenging. Women have 165 to 255 Hz, while men have 85 to 180 Hz.
Difficulty in hearing certain 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-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound pitches?
This problem is often an element of age-related hearing loss. In addition, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear may become damaged, and this makes it more difficult to hear high-pitched sounds.
Extended exposure to loud sounds, including those encountered at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also contribute to the issue. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, 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 people, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but getting hearing aids helps boost high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. A hearing specialist can set your hearing aids at the right setting for you.
Participating in a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be enhanced. Most contemporary hearing devices can link to your mobile phone and come outfitted with directional microphones for accurate sound customization. Your wife will be pleased as an added advantage.
Set up a consultation if you think you may be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.