Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? As proof, maybe you have noticed that some men say they can’t hear their wives’ voices when they are repeating the “to do” list. Of course, we are kidding, however, there are many reasons why it becomes hard to hear women and children speaking voices. Let’s find out why, and what you can do about it.
Understanding high frequency hearing loss
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. Someone may say they can hear soft sounds, but can’t understand why hearing their children or grandchildren is difficult. Women have 165 to 255 Hz whereas men have 85 to 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.
In addition the following sounds would be difficult to hear:
- Chirping birds
- Alarms
- Whistling
- High pitched musical instruments like a flute
What causes high frequency hearing loss?
This problem can be part 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.
If you frequented loud concerts and had excessive noise exposure from work or the environment, it can play a part. Other risk factors include genetics, certain medications like aspirin, chemo drugs, and antibiotics. Cardiovascular disease is related as well.
If children 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.
Treatments for high frequency hearing loss
There is no cure for high frequency hearing loss, but acquiring hearing aids help amplify high-pitched sounds making them clearer and crisper. A hearing specialist can set your aids at the right setting for you.
Attending a business meeting, using the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be enhanced. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that allow for precise sound adjustment. As a bonus, you’ll make your wife happy.
Find a hearing specialist in your area to book an appointment if you suspect you have high frequency hearing loss.
Sources:
Why Can’t I Hear my Granddaughter’s Voice But I Can Hear Soft Sounds?
