Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? As proof, maybe you have noticed that some men claim they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are restating the “to-do” list. Obviously, we are kidding; however, there are lots of 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
Females and young people frequently have voices that are higher in pitch, and this can influence how clearly they are able to communicate for individuals who have difficulty hearing high frequencies. It’s the most prevalent type of hearing impairment.
A person may observe they can pick up on quiet 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, as a result of high-frequency hearing loss can result in unclear speech.
Here are a few other sounds that may be difficult to detect or hear clearly.
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-pitched musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound pitches?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing problem. What’s more, damage to the small, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can result in increased trouble in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, including those experienced at concerts or in loud workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the issue. Additional factors that contribute to risk include heredity, particular medicines such as aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also connected.
If kids have high-frequency hearing loss, it can impede their speech and language skill development. For older adults, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Dealing with hearing loss in the higher frequencies
While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, using hearing aids can dramatically improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by boosting their volume, producing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. An audiologist can program your hearing aids to meet your specific requirements.
Participating in a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be enhanced. Most modern hearing devices can stream to your mobile phone and come outfitted with directional microphones for accurate sound personalization. As a perk, you’ll make your wife happy.
Book an appointment if you suspect you have high-frequency hearing loss.
