I so understand your issue. Suffered with it myself. I tried fiber pills, softeners, and all kinds of other things. My Dr. gave me Linzess and it worked very well. I suffered no side effects, except it pushed me a bit too far the other way. I was so happy to not be constipated anymore that I just put up with it for quite a while. I am now on Amitiza. same type thing, but it doesn't seem to push me the other way. I would guess it is just something you have to try. But I am much happier to be rid of that particular problem.