Major graphic problem.

Since January I’ve been using a Geforce FX 5700 Ultra and haven’t had any problems until a few weeks ago. The best way to describe the problem I’m having would be major drop in frame rate and stuttering of sound in all of my games and 3D applications. It happens very frequently now and I have no idea how to correct it. I’m wondering if it could be a possible problem with Open GL? Any help fixing the problem would be greatly appreciated.

Sounds to me like something is running in the background… but it’s hard to say given the brief explanation.