Why are women and children sometimes harder to hear than men? Maybe you have observed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives speaking when they are listing tasks to be done. Obviously, we are kidding; however, there are lots of reasons why it becomes difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Delving into the impacts of hearing loss at high frequencies
Women and children tend to have higher-pitched voices, which can affect their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most common kind of hearing loss.
Somebody might say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t figure out 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.
Difficulty in hearing certain consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, due to 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-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that bring about hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
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, such as those encountered at concerts or in loud 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. Older adults may face the possibility of experiencing dementia, depression, and 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. An audiologist can configure your hearing aids to meet your specific needs.
Attending a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or chatting with your grandchild can be improved. 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.
Schedule a consultation if you think you may be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.