Sound volume is very low after updating Ubuntu

Hi, before I post my question let me just say that im new when it comes to linex systems and pretty much computers in general but am keen to learn. I recently updated my version of Ubuntu and after doing so experienced problems with low volume. I managed to sort out the problem and have really good sound now, however after that the PHYSICAL volume control panel on my laptop itself is no longer in working! I would really appreciate if someone could help me with this silly predicament. Thanx