Why do my ears feel stuffy?

I have a runny nose, but not like HORRIBLY runny. I also have a slight headache, but I bet that's cuz of the nose. So basically, I have your average cold. But I've had colds many times before in the past and my ears never felt stuffy before. It's the kind of feeling when you ascend and descend on a plane. What could have caused this feeling and what can I do to get rid of it without wasting time and money by going to the doctor (if possible)?