Hello. Your fiance s symptoms seem to be caused by irritable bowel syndrome. It is not caused by any pathological changes in the gut, so there is no need to worry about any long term problems. There are three types in it - one in which loose stools are seen more, one where constipation predominates and the third is a mixed type. Your fiance s seems to be the second type. Dietary changes including more of fibre and fresh fruits and less of refined carbohydrates may well alleviate symptoms. Adequate exercise also helps. If the symptoms donot subside with these, medication may be required which will be prescribed by your gastroenterologist. It is unlikely that the previous use of laxative may be the cause of the present symptoms. However, laxative overuse may cause rebound constipation and other symptoms like you mentioned. It is best avoided. Hope this helps. Regards, Dr Geeta