Hormone Replacement Therapy
Everything You Need to Know About Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease, named after the French surgeon who first described it in 1743, is a condition that affects the penis, causing it to curve or bend, making it difficult or painful to have sex or even get an erection. This blog will discuss everything you need about Peyronie’s disease, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
It is estimated that Peyronie’s disease affects approximately 1 in 10 men, although the prevalence may be higher, as many men may be too embarrassed to seek medical attention. The condition can occur at any age, but it is more common in men over 40.
Fibrous plaques develop in the tunica albuginea, the thick, fibrous sheath surrounding the corpora cavernosa, the two spongy tissues that run along the length of the penis and fill with blood during an erection, characterizing the condition.
The collagen plaques can cause the penis to curve or bend, making it difficult or painful to have sex or even get an erection.
Men of any age can be affected by Peyronie’s disease, but it is more prevalent in men over 40 years old.
Understanding the Causes of Peyronie’s Disease
While the exact cause of Peyronie’s disease remains unknown, experts believe it may result from trauma or injury to the penis. This trauma can be a single incident, like a sports injury, an accident, or repeated minor injuries, such as those occurring during sex.
In addition to physical trauma, genetic factors may make some men more susceptible to Peyronie’s disease. Men with a family history of the condition may have a higher risk of developing it themselves.
By understanding the possible causes of Peyronie’s disease, we can reduce our risk and seek appropriate treatment if necessary.
Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease
The main symptom of Peyronie’s disease is a curvature or bend in the penis. The curve can be mild or severe and can occur in any direction. In some cases, the curve may only be noticeable during an erection. In other cases, it may be noticeable all of the time.
Other symptoms may include:
- Pain or discomfort in the penis during an erection
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Reduced penis size
- Erectile dysfunction
- Anxiety or depression related to sexual performance
- A lump or thickened area on the penis
Diagnosis of Peyronie’s Disease
Diagnosing Peyronie’s disease typically involves a physical exam and a discussion of your medical history and symptoms. A doctor will examine the penis during the physical exam for any signs of curvature, lumps, or other abnormalities.
Imaging tests may sometimes be used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. These tests may include ultrasound, MRI, or X-rays.
It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.
Treatment of Peyronie’s Disease
There is no cure for Peyronie’s disease, but several treatment options can help manage the symptoms and improve sexual function.
Some common treatment options for Peyronie’s disease include:
- Medications: Certain medications may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. These may include pain relievers and medications that may improve blood flow to the penis.
- Injections: In some cases, medications may be injected directly into the plaque in the penis to help break it down and reduce the curvature. These injections may contain prescription drugs, but this treatment option is unsuitable for everyone as they may come with some risks and side effects.
- Surgery: Surgery may be recommended in severe cases of Peyronie’s disease where the curvature is causing significant pain or sexual dysfunction.The most common surgical procedures for Peyronie’s disease include plaque incision and grafting, which involves making an incision in the plaque and using a tissue graft to help straighten the penis.
Penile prosthesis surgery is another, which involves implanting a device in the penis to help achieve an erection.
- Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, losing weight, and reducing alcohol intake may help improve overall health and reduce the risk of Peyronie’s disease. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help improve blood flow to the penis and reduce the risk of injury.
GAINSWave to Help With Peyronie’s Disease
GAINSWave is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-intensity shockwave therapy to improve blood flow and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the penis. While GAINSWave is most commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction, it may also benefit men with Peyronie’s disease.
By improving blood flow to the penis, GAINSWave may help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with Peyronie’s disease. Additionally, the increased blood flow and growth of new blood vessels may help break down the plaque that causes the curvature of the penis, reducing the curvature’s severity.
GAINSWave treatment is typically painless and does not require anesthesia or surgery. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during treatment, but this subsides quickly. Most patients need multiple treatment sessions to achieve optimal results.
GAINSWave at Renew® Health and Wellness
If you’re looking for a place to recharge your batteries, Renew Health and Wellness offers GAINSWave treatments that may interest you. Our staff is knowledgeable and professional, and we’re happy to provide information and answer any questions you may have about our treatments in a friendly and respectful manner.
At Renew Health and Wellness, we understand that seeking treatment for intimate health concerns can be sensitive and personal. That’s why we prioritize discretion and confidentiality in all our client interactions. Our goal is to create a comfortable and supportive environment where you can receive the care and attention you deserve. Contact us today!