A reader has warned that leaf blowers can cause permanent hearing damage, after suffering life-altering consequences from using one. Miranda Fagandini, from New Malden in London, wrote to The Guardian to highlight the dangers of the garden tool, which she says is often overlooked in discussions about antisocial garden equipment.
Ms Fagandini purchased a leaf blower that was so loud it caused permanent hearing loss and hyperacusis, a condition that makes her sensitive to loud noises, in her left ear. She noted that the device had no warning stickers advising the use of ear defenders.
Seven months on, she is now learning to live with hearing aids and finds herself cowering on the underground with her hands over her ears. She called for greater awareness of the risks posed by such tools.
