I have an embarrassing problem that has developed over the years due to chronic constipation. My anal sphincter has lost muscle tone. I have been trying to find a balance between constipation and loose stools. I was put on Linzess, which is VERY expensive and gave me diarrhea even on the lowest dose. I was unable to control my bowels and had to wear pads....very messy! I got off the Linzess and began using one capful of Miralax in water at bedtime in addition to Metamucil after lunch. My stools were very soft and I could not tell if I was passing gas or leaking stool. Right now my biggest concern is the loose anal sphincter. I used to be able to prevent myself from passing gas in social situations and now I can't do that plus I leak stool. If I don't take anything for the constipation I go for days without a BM and my stool becomes like rabbit pellets and I have to strain to have a BM. I have IBS and a redundant bowel. Years ago my gastroenterologist had me see his nurse practitioner who gave me exercises, similar to Kegel exercises, but I was hit and miss doing those. Does anyone else have a situation like mine? I am only 69 years old and we love to travel. I can't foresee traveling or going swimming, etc. if I have this problem.

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