Ive had tubes in my ears a few times when i was younger.the last 3+ years, ive been having chronic ear pain and ringing.dr said ears look fine.i also sometimes get crackling sound in my ears.why could this be? could i need tubes in again?thank you

Unlikely: The structure of the infant head leaves the middle ear vulnerable to infections because mucus made inside may not drain properly through the smallish Eustachian tubes. Germs enter the trapped mucus from the throat causing recurrent infection. Tubes bypass the blockage while the head grows/E tube enlarges, problem stops. Your recent issue is most likely unrelated. See an ENT to sort it out.