I seem to be having a similar issue with mine as well, and also a lack of resources in order to find a fix. achow101 has been kind enough to try and help me in another thread as well so thanks to him there has been some feedback. Before I posted here I also tried the IRC #bitcoin channel but at the time there wasn't anyone who was able to offer any assistance.
Like you mentioned I too am concerned for the folk who run their own nodes and may not have a working knowledge of how to fix these types of problems on their own.
I hope you find a solution and will keep an eye on the thread in case you do.