Peyronie's disease, also known as penile curvature, is a urological condition that affects a significant percentage of the male population. It is characterized by the formation of a fibrous plaque or hard lump in the internal tissue of the penis, which can cause curvature, pain, and complications in intimate life. It is a reality that affects many men and is the most common penile disease
In this article, you'll find all the essential information about this disease, from its causes and symptoms to the most advanced treatments and preventative measures, providing clear and hopeful guidance for those who suffer from it.
What is Peyrone's disease or penile curvature?
Peyronie's disease is a connective tissue disorder affecting the penis. It is defined by the development of a plaque of inelastic scar tissue in the tunica albuginea, the layers of elastic tissue surrounding the corpora cavernosa, which are responsible for erection.
In a healthy penis, these tunics are flexible and expand evenly during erection. However, Peyronie's plaque acts like a string that "pulls" on a specific area, preventing normal expansion and causing a characteristic curvature or deformity, which may be upward, downward, or lateral. In addition, it can cause indentations, narrowing (an "hourglass" shape), and, in many cases, pain during erections or during intercourse. morning erection.
It may interest you: phases of male erection.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of Peyronie's disease is not fully understood, but the most widely accepted theory suggests repetitive trauma or microtrauma to the penis. During vigorous sexual or physical activity, small tears can occur in the tunica albuginea. In most men, these heal without problems. However, in individuals with a genetic predisposition, the healing process is disrupted, producing excessive and disorganized fibrotic scarring.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing it are:
- Penile trauma: a sudden blow or bending of the erect penis as a common trigger.
- Age: It is more common in men between 40 and 70 years old, due to the natural loss of tissue elasticity with age.
- Connective tissue disorders or diseases: Dupuytren's disease or scleroderma.
- Surgical procedures: such as radical prostatectomy are often another triggering factor.
- Immune disorders: such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome or Behçet's disease.
- Family background: Having a first-degree relative with the disease, connective tissue diseases, or diabetes mellitus increases the risk.
- Tobacco use: It is also related, as it can cause damage to blood vessels and promote fibrosis.
It may interest you: penile diseases more common.
Symptom
- A hard, flat area can be felt under the skin of the penis, whether flaccid or erect.
- Penile curvature is the most characteristic symptom; it is usually progressive and becomes evident during erection.
- There is pain during erection in the initial stages of the disease, which usually disappears over time when the disease stabilizes.
- Indentations, narrowing, or an irregular shape of the penis may appear, and there may be difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. This is due to damage to blood vessels and tissues.
- It causes a perceptible shortening of the length of the penis.
- Erectile dysfunctionDDifficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, which is called erectile dysfunction. Interestingly, people with Peyronie's disease often report experiencing erectile dysfunction before other penile symptoms appear.
As with almost all medical circumstances, the sooner the attention received, the sooner a solution can be found to the problem. If men with erectile dysfunction postpone their diagnosis and treatment, they hinder a potential cure.
It is essential that if you experience any of these symptoms, you consult a medical professional for a proper evaluation. Starting treatment early gives you the best chance of improving the condition and preventing it from getting worse.
Stages of Peyronie's disease
acute phase
This is the initial, active stage of the disease. It usually lasts between 6 and 18 months. It is characterized by inflammation, the formation and growth of fibrotic plaque, and pain during erections and at rest.
The curvature and other deformities may worsen or change rapidly. This is when nonsurgical (conservative) treatments are most effective in halting progression.
chronic phase
After the acute phase, the disease enters a stable stage. In this phase, the plaque stabilizes and calcifies in some cases; pain during erection generally resolves, the curvature stabilizes, and the deformity stops progressing and remains constant.
The focus at this stage is on correcting the deformity if it impedes sexual intercourse, with surgery being the primary option.
Diagnosis of the disease
The diagnosis of Peyronie's disease is primarily clinical. The patient's history and physical examination, along with symptoms, previous trauma, and medical history are reviewed. The penis is palpated to identify the plaque.
The patient is often asked to provide photographs of the erect penis from different angles. This helps assess the degree of curvature without the need to induce an erection.
Dynamic penile ultrasound is the most important imaging test. A Doppler ultrasound is performed after injecting a medication to induce an erection. This allows the plaque to be visualized in detail, the angle of curvature accurately measured, and blood flow assessed to rule out associated vascular erectile dysfunction.
What happens if Peyronie's disease is left untreated? Complications and risks
Leaving Peyronie's disease untreated, especially during the active phase, can lead to several complications, such as:
- Worsening of the curvature.
- Permanent erectile dysfunction.
- Significant shortening of the penis.
- Chronic pain.
- Anxiety, stress and depression due to not being able to develop a full sexual activity.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing Peyronie's disease. One of them is age, being more frequent in men of middle age y mayores, especially common among the 45 and the 70 yearsAlthough it can occur at any age, penile curvature in younger men is more often associated with congenital penile curvatureA slight curvature in young men is usually normal and is not a cause for concern.
On the other hand, genetic predisposition plays an important role. If there are confirmed cases of Peyronie's disease in your family, your risk of developing this condition increases. family background They are therefore a significant indicator to consider.
Men who suffer diabetes, hypertension o erectile dysfunction are more likely to be affected by Peyronie's disease. These medical conditions They can compromise vascular health and connective tissue, thus facilitating the appearance of this condition.
It has also been observed that some treatments aimed at combating erectile dysfunction may have side effects that contribute to the development of Peyronie's disease in certain cases. It is crucial to evaluate the risks and benefits of any medication.
In addition to all this, it has been observed that individuals who suffer connective tissue diseases of the body, like the Dupuytren's contracture —a condition that causes thickening of the tissue in the palm of the hand, causing the fingers to curl—appear to be at higher risk of developing Peyronie's disease.
Finally, we must mention Additional guidelines that may be associated with Peyronie's disease, such as Smoking, certain types of prostate surgery, and other systemic diseases that could influence the health of connective tissue.
How many men have Peyronie's disease?
Many men do not seek medical attention due to the shame or stigma associated with it, considering it a taboo subject. For this reason it is difficult to give a true number, but researchers estimate that the true number of men who have Peyronie's disease is more than 1 in 10. It is important to encourage openness and dialogue about sexual health so that those who need it will seek help.
Does it affect a man's fertility?
Peyronie's disease does not affect sperm production in the testicles or semen quality. Therefore, it does not cause male infertility.
However, it can indirectly affect a man's ability to father a child if the curvature is so severe that it prevents the release of semen into the vagina during intercourse. In these cases, home artificial insemination techniques can be used or a fertility clinic can be consulted.
How many men have Peyronie's?
According to a publication by Stony Brook Medicine, approximately 7% of men may suffer from Peyronie's disease. Although it is commonly diagnosed in older men, it can occur at any age, provided the patient is exposed to the aforementioned causes or risk factors.
As with almost all medical conditions, the earlier the treatment, the sooner the problem can be resolved. If men with erectile dysfunction delay diagnosis and treatment, they hinder their potential cure.
Treatments available for Peyronie's disease
Non-surgical treatments used in the acute phase include oral medications, vitamins and antioxidants, and intralesional injections of medications such as verapamil, interferon, or Xiaflex.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy, traction devices (penile extenders), and vacuum therapy (VCD) are also used.
Surgical treatments used in the stable chronic phase are reserved for when the deformity prevents intercourse and the disease is stabilized.
Plication techniques are used to shorten the side opposite the curvature, tissue grafts are used to straighten the penis and the resulting defect is covered with a patch (graft), or penile prosthesis implants, which mechanically straighten the penis and allow a firm erection.
On the other hand, the patient may not need treatment if:
- It has small plates.
- The curvature of the penis is slight.
- He has no pain.
- He has no problems with sexual relations.
- He has no urinary problems.
The choice of treatment should be discussed with a health professional who will be able to recommend the best option for your specific case. The doctor will discuss treatment options with the patient and review possible side effects and outcomes.
How much does Peyronie's treatment cost?
The cost of treatment for Peyronie's disease can vary widely depending on the type of treatment chosen and your health insurance coverage. Initial medical consultations and diagnostics can range from 50 to 150 euros. Medications can cost between 20 and 200 euros, depending on the type and duration of treatment. More advanced therapies, such as surgery, can cost several thousand euros. It is advisable to check with your health insurance company and compare costs before starting any treatment.
Prevention and care
Avoid trauma
Avoid sexual or physical activities that may cause sudden bending or impact to the erect penis.
Healthy life style
Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, control diabetes, and, above all, avoid smoking, as smoking is a major risk factor for fibrosis.
Seek early medical attention
At the first sign of a lump, curvature, or pain during erection, it's crucial to consult a urologist. Early diagnosis and treatment in the acute phase offer the best chance of preventing progression.
Communication with your partner
Maintaining open and honest communication with your partner reduces the anxiety and emotional stress associated with the disease.
Do not self-medicate
Avoid "miracle treatments" and always follow the instructions of a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take for Peyronie's to heal?
The acute phase, when the disease is active, typically lasts between 6 and 18 months. After this, the disease stabilizes.
What vitamins are taken for Peyronie's disease?
Vitamin E is the most commonly used for its antioxidant effects. It's often combined with L-Carnitine or Coenzyme Q10. Always under medical supervision.
Is Peyronie's disease an STD?
No. Peyronie's disease is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It's a connective tissue disorder caused by fibrosis.
Does Peyronie's disease go away on its own?
In a small percentage of cases (especially mild ones), there may be spontaneous improvement, or the curvature may not progress to the point of being problematic. However, it is not common for it to disappear completely without treatment.
Is it possible to correct the curvature without surgery?
Yes, it is possible in the acute phase.
How common is Peyronie's disease?
It is estimated to affect approximately 3 to 9% of men. However, the actual figure could be higher, as many cases go unreported.
Recover your sexual health in Doctor T Clinic
La Peyronie's disease It is a condition that causes curvature, pain, and deformity of the penis, affecting erections and sexual life. Beyond the physical impact, this condition can cause anxiety, stress, and relationship problems.
En Low T CenterWe approach this condition with a comprehensive and personalized approach. We perform a thorough evaluation to design a treatment plan tailored to each patient, which may include medical, noninvasive, or surgical therapies depending on the severity:
- Comprehensive health assessments focused on male wellness.
- Online Testosterone Test free, which acts as a first step to detect hormonal problems and to know if you have low testosterone or high testosterone.
- Personalized advice and treatments tailored to individual needs.
- Testicular health education and injury prevention methods.
- Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), indicated in cases of primary hypogonadism o secondary hypogonadism, helps you regain your vitality, sexual energy and overall well-being.
Don't let Peyronie's limit your sexual well-being or your confidence. Come to Doctor T Clinic and start recovering your intimate health and the quality of your sex life today!
Conclusion
Peyronie's disease is a real and treatable urological condition that can have a significant physical and emotional impact.
The key to successfully managing it lies in information, early diagnosis, and consultation with a specialized urologist, and there are multiple options for returning your intimate life to normal. Avoiding embarrassment and talking openly about it with a professional is the first and most important step toward a solution.
0 comments