22 years ago I permanently damaged my left ear at a beach concert on Tortola, British Virgin Islands. I was young, drinking in the sun, and standing far too close to a concert speaker stack that was turned up way too loud. The damage started off as pain - felt like water was stuck in my ear for weeks. It's still noticeable 22 years later. I'll always regret that moment, but have come to accept it. Your ears are so fragile.