Can clarithromycin cause my ears to ring? and if so is this just a temporary side effect?

Rare but possible: According to the phycisians desk reference (pdr), Clarithromycin causes tinnitus in 2% of patients, and hearing loss in 1% of patients. It's possible that the ringing may also be a result of your illness, especially if it is an upper respiratory illness. If the tinnitus persists, i would definitely check with your doctor, and probably see an ENT specialist to check your hearing.