This happened to me recently. I had an MRI with the ear protection that they provided. The ear protection was not adequate. I had to stop them and readjust the earplugs and it still was painful. My left ear actually began to hurt. So, it does happen and it I ever need an MRI again, I will be bringing my own earplugs. It's been over 2 weeks now with no improvement. From what I have read here, I wish I had done something sooner.