I have always had alot of problems with my ears while flying. When I flew last summer I couldn't hear for over a week and they sure did hurt. I finally found something that really works and wanted to share. This last trip I tried earplanes. They were wonderful. I could still hear and no problems at all with my ears. What are earplanes? you ask. 
   EarPlanes consist of two elements: a hypoallergenic silicone ear plug and a ceramic pressure regulator. The silicone earplug has four circumferential rings which provide an airtight seal between the product and ear canal. The ceramic element is a controlled porosity filter, one end of which is exposed to the external cabin pressure, with the opposite end exposed to the sealed chamber formed when the ear plug is inserted in the ear. Thus, as the cabin air pressure changes, a pressure differential is created across the ceramic filter, thereby causing air to flow through the filter. The filter acts as an impedance to the flow of air into and out of the ear canal.
 If you also have ear problems while flying I highly recommend you try these, they really work.

  Not sure what area you are in but their site has a store locator. I will definitely be looking for them myself as the pair I had I got as a freebie sometime ago.

http://www.cirrushealthcare.com/locator.aspx

They have adult and children sizes available. They are a little more spendy than regular earplugs but well worth it. I will never use anything else. 

Thanks I sent the link to my daughter.