Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? As proof, maybe you have noticed that some men say they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are restating the “to-do” list. Of course, we are joking; however, there are lots of reasons why it becomes hard to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s discover the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Females and young individuals frequently have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can influence how clearly they are able to communicate for people who have trouble hearing high frequencies. It’s the most prevalent type of hearing impairment.
Someone might say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand why hearing their children or grandchildren is difficult. The normal 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 harder to hear consonants in speech, such as t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound muddled.
Here are a number of other sounds that might be hard to detect or hear clearly.
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What are the underlying factors that contribute to hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
Age-related hearing loss may include this hearing issue. Additionally, the tiny hair-like sensory cells in the inner ear can become damaged, and this makes it more difficult to hear high-pitched sounds.
Extended exposure to loud noises, such as those experienced at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the issue. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is also connected.
High-frequency hearing loss in children may hinder the development of their speech and language skills. Older people may face the danger 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. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the right setting for you.
An enhanced experience can be attained 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 allow for accurate sound adjustment. As a bonus , you’ll make your wife happy.
Book an appointment if you suspect you have high-frequency hearing loss.
