When we went to Oz I caught a nasty cold & it was touch & go as to whether or not I would be allowed to fly home 'cos of the congestion in my ears.   Eventually I was given the all clear as long as I used 'Airplane' earplugs. They were brilliant & I now use them everytime I fly. They regulate the pressure on the eardrum on take off & descent......quite cheap.......but so effective I wouldn't fly without them.

Happy flying    Carole