This is a pretty good description of the problem and ways to avoid barotrauma when flying or diving. It's all about equalizing the pressure in your ears as outside pressure changes. The site also has good info and recommendations on hearing aids. I suffer mild hearing loss and tinnitus from 40 years of playing rock music and I am hanging on to what I've got left for as long as possible.
Good luck!
Barotrauma - A guide to Hearing Loss