unable to open help and support

I installed ie7 and I cannot access things like system restore, help and support,
in xp. When I open ie7, I also cannot view the help and support and other settings in msn.

I recently installed zone alarm firewall. Could this be the problem?
thanks

 

Ive tried the suggestions but it did not help.
Whne I try to open a new program such as Help and Support, System Restore,
System Information, the window opens however, I cant view any text.
I dont get any "error" notice...I simply dont see anything.
I first noticed the problem while working on a tax software program and I needed to access the Help section of the program. The Help opens however, I cant see any text in the window. I also have the same problem when I log on to MSN. I cant view the help and other settings.
thanks for the help