I don't know if there is any connection between the two incidents, but I recently upgraded to Internet Explore?

I recently upgraded to Internet Explorer 9 and suddenly my email started to do some strange things. Before, when I sent an email the word "Sent" would appear and I could start over again. Now, the word "Loading" appears with 3 dots flashing after it, and when it disappears the message has been sent. The only way I can get then get back to email is to go back to the desktop and reenter through my Verizon connection and then reenter email. This is the main problem, but there are others. Can you offer me a clue about what has happened to my system? I'm 81 years old and could certainly use some help, although coincidentally I was writing promotional material back in the 1960s for Digital and Honeywell computers. Thank you for whatever help you can give me.