What's Wrong with My Ears?

[Eino Maki]

Dear Friends,
I took up diving last fall. I went to Cozumel in January and made 14 dives, the deepest one to 96 feet. I have never had any problems equalizing during descent or ascent. Since shortly after I returned, and for the last three months, my ears have been sort of "bugging me" but never approached anything like an earache. The last week though, they have become increasingly annoying and I have even considered a doctor visit. When I logged on, I read the thread from yesterday about the ear plugs, to help prevent infection. Could I be having some sort of chronic, low grade infection in my ears? My male tendency is to let it ride until it gets really bad, and then do something. Has anyone on the board had any similar probems? All advice is welcome.
Eino Maki