D.,
I'm just getting over an ear infection. I haven't had one since grade school... Anyway, I had similar symptoms to you and waited a whole month before going to the Dr. I never had pain, just annoying itching/fullness/discomfort type stuff (and not every day). After two rounds of antibiotics, I'm finally infection free. However, I still have discomfort. If the discomfort continues for another two weeks, I'll find myself in an ENT's office... That's my story.
Take DECONGESTANTS. I took sudafed daily (and over night until sleeping became an issue). You might try taking them consistently (at least while you are awake) to see if that helps. I used 12 hour Sudafed (so you just take it once in the morning).
Another option is doing those nasal washes (I haven't tried it yet because you aren't supposed to use it with an infection, so I'll be trying it soon since I know I'm infection free now).
Good Luck with your decision and getting discomfort free.