Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. An unfortunate cycle can sometimes develop where the consistent use of medications or laxatives, to help with constipation, can eventually cause constipation because they prevent the bowel from working on its own. This is the reason, it is always best not to use these agents too often. With a history of hard stool, for acute relief, you may need to use a stool softener such as Ducolax along with fluids. After getting over this acute episode, it would be important to prevent future episodes of constipation. • Drink at least 8 glasses of fluids daily, not including caffeine drinks or alcohol because they cause the body to lose fluids. • At least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily • Continue the Metamucil • Physical activity If there is no improvement, you may need a scope of the colon. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Akhtarhusain