6 sounds of summer that can cause hearing loss

(BPT) - Summer creates wonderful memories that last a lifetime. But summer can also leave people with something else that can last a lifetime — hearing loss.

The loudness of sound is measured in decibels (dB). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8 hours of exposure to 85 dB at a time is the limit before hearing damage begins. And if the level of sound exceeds 85 dB, then the exposure time before it becomes dangerous decreases significantly. With that in mind, here are the top 6 sounds of summer that far exceed this safety threshold.

1. Outdoor Power Equipment — 95-115 dB

People often use this time of the year to get work done around the house and the yard. But power tools and equipment such as leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws are dangerously loud. Before you turn on your power tools, consider throwing on some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.

2. Your car stereo — 95-120 dB

Long drives with your radio cranked up so high it makes your car vibrate may be followed by periods of temporary hearing loss that indicate irrevocable damage. Also, turning up your car radio loud enough to hear over your open sunroof can cause hearing loss from both the music and wind noise combined.

3. Outdoor Concerts — Up to 115 dB

At this level, even a minute of exposure can cause permanent hearing loss. How long do you typically stay at a concert? The damage also accumulates — the more often you attend without wearing hearing protection, the greater the likelihood of developing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

4. iPods/personal audio devices — Up to 130 dB

Listening to your MP3 player at levels so loud everyone nearby can hear your favorite song is dangerous for your ears. Likewise, if you frequently listen to music through earbuds or headphones while jogging or biking outside, you’re probably turning the volume precariously high just to drown out traffic noise.

5. Fireworks — Up to 140 dB

The beautiful summer weather makes it the perfect time to be outside and enjoy a fireworks display. But being too close to fireworks and firecrackers can cause lasting damage. Putting in a pair of over-the-counter earplugs first is a cheap and simple way to avoid it.

6. Auto Races — Up to 160 dB

Like many Americans, you may head to the racetrack for the day and return with ringing in your ears. But the next day, the ringing stops and you can hear fine again. Don’t be fooled into thinking that because your hearing returned you’ve escaped any consequences. If you find you aren’t hearing as well as you used to, it’s a good idea to visit a hearing care professional for a comprehensive hearing test.