Why are women and children sometimes more challenging to hear than men? As proof, perhaps you have noticed that some men claim 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 difficult to hear women’s and children’s voices. Let’s figure out why, and what you can do about it.
Comprehending high-frequency hearing loss
Females and young people frequently have voices that are higher in frequency, and this can impact how clearly they are able to communicate for people who have trouble hearing high frequencies. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
A person may notice they can pick up on quiet noises, yet struggle to hear what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. Women have 165 to 255 Hz, while men have 85 to 180 Hz.
High-frequency hearing loss can make it difficult to hear consonants in speech, including t, th, ch, soft c, s, sh, f, and k, which cause speech to sound muddled.
Additionally, the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High-frequency musical instruments like a flute
What causes high-frequency hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss may include this hearing issue. What’s more, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can lead to increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, including those encountered at concerts or in loud workplaces or surroundings, can also add to the problem. Other risk factors include genetic makeups, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Heart disease is connected as well.
High-frequency hearing loss in children could hinder the development of their speech and language skills. For older adults, it can include the risk of dementia, depression, and injury, causing falls.
Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high-frequency hearing loss, but getting hearing aids helps amplify 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 achieved in a business meeting, making phone calls, dining, or engaging in conversations with your grandchild. Most contemporary hearing devices can link to your mobile phone and come equipped with directional microphones for accurate sound personalization. Your wife will be pleased as an added benefit.
Schedule an appointment if you suspect you have high-frequency hearing loss.