Bart,
I don't clear my history/cache because of the amount of "saved" login information. I suppose it wouldn't hurt. Actually... I could do it with my laptop which just sits in my living room at this point. I'm having the same problem with both.
As far as installing another browser, I prefer not to add additional software, I'm one to usually streamline my equipment.
I'll give the laptop a go and see if that improves the situation at all.
(I really wish you could see how annoying it is...)
Corey