I have a small painful lump about the size of a marbel by where my left tonsils should be. that and my left ear hurts when i swallow. and i mild cough?

Gargle: Probably nothing serious. Warm salt water gargles 5 minutes every 2-3 hours. Try and pop your ears (hold your nose and blow.. it will NOT harm you) Give this about 2 days maximum...no improvement see your practitioner.

Acute tonsillitis.: You need to get a rapid strep throat test. See your doctor. In the mean time do warm salt water gargle for the throat irritation to prevent the mild cough or use an over the counter throat spray for throat discomfor.