Cracking noise in left ear and sharp pain in right ear?

For the last week I have had this crackling noise in my left ear...it sounds like there are Pop Rocks candies going off in my ear. It's driving me CRAZY!!! Can't sleep at night and I am getting really irritable because I can't get it to stop. I do not have health insurance at this time, so I am unable to see a doctor about this. Any suggestions as to what I could try to make it stop? Also i've noticed that it only happens when i swallow. Any ideas on what it might be and how i can get it to stop.