Loud whirring sound is getting LOUDER! Power steering pump or something else?

What is your question?

6 months ago I noticed a whirring sound. Had it checked out and was told it's probably the power steering pump but that it doesn't HAVE to be replaced if I could stand the annoyance. However, the noise is getting louder and louder and is noticeable all the time. It gets louder as I accelerate. Now it seems ANOTHER loud noise is happening at the same time, especially on the highway. VERY LOUD. Sounds like my car is running high, not shifting properly(2500rpm @ 65mph)and is going to blow up. Have had all recommended maintenance done on my car in recent months. The only check engine light that has come on was right after we changed our battery and then it went off automatically a couple of days later.