I lost the hearing in one ear to a virus 7 years ago so I understand your concern! I travel a bit for work and a lot for personal so I take 2 Sudafed (the real stuff, not the one you can buy on the shelf) when they start boarding so when we take off it has just kicked in.
If I'm already a bit stuffy my dr. will write me a prescription for Entex LA. It's miserable to have your ears pop and stay popped. Also, if that starts happening to you, the flight attendants have always been so kind and get me a hot rag to put on my ears - it does help.
Good luck with it! Yea! We'll all be cruisin' soon!