Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? Maybe you have observed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives speaking when they are detailing tasks to be done. That’s a joke, but it is rather common for people to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and explore possible solutions.
Exploring the impacts 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 notice they can pick up on quiet noises, yet struggle to make out what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. The typical 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 difficult to hear consonants in speech, including t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound jumbled.
In addition, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Birds chirping
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
This problem can be part of age-related hearing loss. What’s more, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells found in the inner ear can result in increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, including those encountered at concerts or in loud workplaces or surroundings, can also contribute to the problem. Additional factors that contribute to risk include heredity, specific drugs 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. Older adults may face the danger of experiencing dementia, depression, and falls.
Managing hearing loss in the higher frequencies
While high-frequency hearing loss is permanent, utilizing hearing aids can considerably improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by increasing their volume, producing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. An audiologist can program your hearing aids to meet your individual requirements.
An improved experience can be achieved in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or talking with your grandchild. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that enable accurate sound adjustment. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Book an appointment if you suspect you have high-frequency hearing loss.