A Closer Look at Peyronie’s Disease

If a penis is bent when erect the chances are that Peyronie’s disease is the cause. Scar tissue, known as plaque, forms inside the penis which stops the blood flowing properly and, in turn, causes the penis to bend. Most sufferers will still be able to have sex, but some will suffer pain and erectile dysfunction. Peyronie’s disease left untreated is not going to go away on its own, and the likelihood is that the fibrous scar tissue will continue to build up causing more pain and suffering in the future. Although it is usually middle-aged men who develop Peyronie’s disease it has been diagnosed in males of all ages.

The Causes

Doctors don’t actually know what causes Peyronie’s disease. The conclusion of some research is that the plaque starts to form following some kind of trauma which causes the penis to bleed inside. This could be something as simple as a knock that you barely feel. You probably won’t even have noticed the injury as the damage is on the inside. Peyronie’s disease which develops gradually over time could be due to genetics, for some both injury and genes will be the cause. Another theory is that it could be a side effect of certain drugs but as yet there is no solid proof.

The Symptoms

The symptoms of PD can develop overnight or appear gradually over a period of time. When a penis is soft there is no evidence of the problem but men may notice they are struggling to achieve an erection or when they do their penis is starting to curve. This is the hard plaque within hampering flexibility and whilst the pain may lessen the bend will likely worsen. Some sufferers will develop similar scar tissues in other parts of their body, on the hands and feet for example. Men who suffer from Dupuytren’s contractures, scarring within the hands which affects the mobility of the fingers, seem to have a higher chance of developing Peyronie’s.

How is Peyronie’s Diagnosed?

As with any disease, the sooner you visit your doctor the better. The doctor will examine the penis and will be able to feel the hardened tissues inside. It’s not always necessary to have an erection for the examination but if it’s needed, a painless injection will be given so they can see the extent of the bend. X Rays and ultrasound scans may also be used in order to deliver a definite diagnosis. In rare cases the results may not confirm Peyronie’s and a biopsy may be needed. This consists of the removal of a very small piece of tissue which is then sent to the lab for testing.

Treatments

The good news is that Peyronie’s is treatable. There are various pills and injections but the biggest breakthrough in recent times has been shock wave treatment. Becoming increasingly used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, the low energy waves clear out the plaque that causes ED, the same plaque that causes Peyronie’s. It’s painless, non-invasive and can eliminate the bend completely.