2010 macBook pro 15". Lagging and froze during last update.

Hi guys, 2 months ago I had my hinge replaced under warrenty because of a faulty glue joint. When I got the computer back I noticed a slight grinding in the body while runnung (hard drive?). It got better so I let it go, this morning I performed a software update and it froze during the validation process so I had to power off by holding the power button. I found a past tip that led me to find the folder with the update and I put the content of the folder in the trash. I did an update again and it said I was up to date.

I want to cure my lagging and freezing, need some help! as you can tell by my user name I am better with wood, not computers so please keep your recommendations in "newbie" terms. Thanks for your help!