Will i need to go to the doctors, because of my Ear Problems?

I have been suffering with ear pain, popping, and crackling when i swallow, i have been doing some research, i know it has something to do with my Eustachian Tube, i had an cold the other week, a day before i got this, i felt a headache, sore throat, the regular business with a cold, and my ears crackled every so often, especially when i swallow or yawn.

Could this be an ear infection?

a Simple blocked sinus?

or something more serious?

I was hoping i would know if this would require me to go to the doctors, or is it something that will ratify its self over time, i really hate going to the Doctors, and especially if it is something simple?

Cheers