Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? As proof, perhaps 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 discover the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Women and children tend to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anybody with high-frequency hearing loss. It’s the most prevalent form of hearing impairment.
Someone might report that they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand why hearing their children or grandchildren is challenging. 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 result in unclear speech.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Birds chirping
- 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 found in the inner ear can lead to increased trouble in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
If you frequented loud concerts and had substantial noise exposure from work or the environment, it can be a factor. Other factors that contribute to risk include heredity, particular medicines such as aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also connected.
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.
Managing hearing loss in the higher frequencies
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but getting hearing aids helps boost high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. An audiologist can configure your hearing aids to meet your specific requirements.
Attending a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be improved. Most modern 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 benefit.
Set up a consultation if you think you might be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.
