Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? 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 individuals to struggle to hear the voices of women and children. Let’s discover the reasons behind this and discuss possible solutions.
Understanding high-frequency hearing loss
Females and young people frequently have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can influence how clearly they are able to communicate for people with trouble 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 make out 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, 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 intrinsic factors that bring about hearing loss at higher sound frequencies?
Age-related hearing loss might include this hearing problem. Additionally, 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 noises, such as those experienced at concerts or in loud workplaces or surroundings, can also contribute to the problem. Other factors that contribute to risk include heredity, specific drugs including aspirin, chemotherapy medications, and antibiotics. Heart disease is related as well.
High-frequency hearing loss in kids could hinder the development of their speech and language skills. For older adults, it can include the danger of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but acquiring hearing aids helps amplify high-pitched sounds, making them clearer and crisper. An audiologist can program your hearing aids to meet your specific needs.
An improved experience can be achieved in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or engaging in conversations with your grandchild. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that enable precise sound adjustment. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Schedule a consultation if you believe you might be experiencing hearing issues at high frequencies.
