You've already been thrown into crazy airport times! Ahh!
If you have cell phone service, I've found that the best thing to do is call the airline's customer support line as soon as there's a problem with your flight to check out your options. You basically jump ahead of everyone in line, and they always seem less overwhelmed than the people at the desks. I do not envy any of their jobs - so many worried/angry people to deal with!
That is a really awesome tip!!