Why is it harder to hear women’s and children’s voices? Maybe you have observed that some men claim they are unable to hear their wives talking 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 find out why, and what you can do about it.

Delving into the effects of hearing loss at high frequencies

Women and children have a tendency to have higher-pitched voices, which can impact their speech clarity for anyone with high-frequency hearing loss. It is the most common type of hearing loss.
A person may notice they can pick up on faint noises, yet struggle to hear what their kids or grandkids are saying to them. The typical 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, as a result of high-frequency hearing loss can lead to unclear speech.

Additionally, the following sounds would be challenging to hear:

• Chirping birds
• Alarms
• Whistling
• High-frequency musical instruments like a flute

What causes high-frequency hearing loss?

This problem can be an element of age-related hearing loss. What’s more, damage to the tiny, hair-like sensory cells located in the inner ear can result in increased difficulty in perceiving high-frequency sounds.

Extended exposure to loud noises, including those encountered at concerts or in noisy workplaces or surroundings, can also contribute 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 kids may hinder the development of their speech and language skills. Older adults may face the danger of experiencing dementia, depression, and falls.

Treatments for high-frequency hearing loss

While high-frequency hearing loss is irreversible, using hearing aids can significantly improve the clarity of high-pitched sounds by increasing their volume, producing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. A hearing specialist can calibrate your hearing aids at the best setting for you.

Attending a business meeting, talking on the phone, having meals, or talking with your grandchild can be improved. Many hearing aids can be connected to your smartphone and have directional microphones that allow for precise sound adjustment. Your wife will be pleased as an added advantage.

Set up a consultation if you believe you may be experiencing hearing difficulties at high frequencies.