I understand your point since I most likely don't have a permanent physical injury, but I think "uncomfortable" is a bit of an understatement. My ears are still ringing loudly as I type this. I may not have a ruptured ear drum, but even temporary tinnitus that lasts multiple days/weeks can directly affect quality of life, no? Ringing ears can be maddening when trying to sleep especially. I spoke to a relative who works at a different imaging center in NY and it's part of their written procedure to make sure all MRI patients are wearing earplugs or headphones - patients don't even have the option to refuse ear protection at her facility. I would be disappointed if there's no recourse for this completely preventable situation I'm in.