New windows in IE7 cannot be seen

Currently, I am using Internet Explorer 7 and when I click on certain links, the following happens (including when I clicked on "Special Removal Instructions" in the Read Me First section under Malware removal:

The header bar on the current window will change to a lighter shade of blue, just like other programs when they are not "on top". This acts like the window is opening, but nothing is ever displayed and nothing changes. I can go to the "Task Manager" and see that another "IExplorer.exe" process is running, as if the link has opened a new window, but nothing ever shows up and I can't switch to the "hidden" window.

Also, If I click "View" and select "Full Screen", during the transition from "normal" view to "Full Screen" I can see what look like "stacked up" window frames in the background.

I'd appreciate any help. Thanks in advance!