Why is it harder 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. That’s a joke, but it is fairly common for people to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Exploring the impacts of hearing loss at high frequencies
Females and young individuals frequently have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can impact how clearly they are able to communicate for people who have difficulty hearing high frequencies. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
Somebody may say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand 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.
In addition, the following sounds would be challenging to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing issue. What’s more, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can result in increased trouble in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
If you frequented loud concerts and had substantial noise exposure from work or the environment, it can play a part. Other risk factors include genetics, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is connected as well.
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.
Managing hearing loss in the higher frequencies
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but acquiring 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.
An improved experience can be attained in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or talking with your grandchild. Most contemporary hearing devices can stream to your mobile phone and come equipped with directional microphones for accurate sound personalization. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Book an appointment if you think you have high-frequency hearing loss.