Q: itunes is not authorized for this computer

So, I plug in my ipod to get current podcasts and up pops a message that says something like, "This computer is n longer authorized to play purchases from itunes store.  Would you like to authorize?"  Of course I do, I am in a hurry, about to go on shift....so I enter my ID and password...and the box says, "This computer is already authorized."  So I click "OK" and up comes the "This computer is no longer authorized..."  How the &#@) do I get out of this loop?  I wrote t itunes customer support, they says they'll get back to me in 48 hours.  ARGH!!!  Has anyone else run into this?