The severity of Peyronie’s disease depends on how greatly it affects the lives of those with a diagnosis. Although Peyronie’s disease is serious, it is not fatal. Many studies point to the condition as being a contributing factor in the development of depression and anxiety in affected men. The social stigma that discussing such a sensitive topic often brings up prevents many patients from seeking help — not only with their sexual health but also their mental well-being.
Peyronie’s disease, a serious disorder in which scar tissue forms underneath the skin of the penis, affects many men. As scar tissue develops, it pulls on the surrounding tissues and causes the penis to bend or curve, typically when the penis is erect. In severe cases, this affectation of the penile shape can impede sexual intercourse, according to Mayo Clinic. Peyronie’s disease is not curable, yet there are many treatments available to mitigate its complications.
Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease
According to the University of Utah, anywhere from four to 13% of men struggle with Peyronie’s disease. Many men who suffer from this disease may not mention it, which might contribute to a large underreporting. As a result, this statistic is estimated to be much higher.
Mayo Clinic reports that some of the signs or symptoms of Peyronie’s disease include:
- Development of hard lumps on one or both sides of the penis
- Pain when the penis is erect
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Changes in penile shape, such as shortening or narrowing
- Erectile dysfunction
Reviews in Urology notes that Peyronie’s disease usually doesn’t stabilize until about six months after noticeable signs appear, and in some cases, up to a year. The same source notes that the pain associated with the condition may also resolve itself after six months, yet the shape of the penis will only improve slightly.
Causes of Peyronie’s Disease
The disease can have a number of causes. Peyronie’s disease can be a complication of prostate cancer, is more prevalent in older men, and may co-occur with connective tissue disorders, according to Mayo Clinic. Not every male who suffers from Peyronie’s disease has one of these conditions. It is widely believed that the main cause of Peyronie’s disease is a traumatic injury to the penis. It’s worth noting that this illness is not contagious or caused by any known type of transmittable disease.
Penis Injury
Mayo Clinic reports that repeated injury to the penis could cause Peyronie’s disease. When the penis is injured, there may be swelling and bleeding located in the elastic membrane of the organ. As the injury heals, scar tissue forms and plaque can develop. This plaque is what might start the curvature in the penis.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) reports that many people do not remember injuring their penis in the first place.
Psychological Impacts of Peyronie’s Disease
Translational Andrology and Urology reported in a 2016 study that psychological aspects of Peyronie’s disease affect 80% of men diagnosed with the illness. Depressive symptoms and emotional distress affect 50% of sufferers. Their inability to participate in sex (combined with their feelings of low self-esteem) contributed to relationship dissatisfaction and feelings of shame within the men studied.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine reported similar findings, noting that some of the psychological impacts of Peyronie’s disease include anxiety and depression. Their study found that as a result of their condition, 81% of men reported emotional difficulties, with 21% reporting extreme clinical depression.
Diagnosis and Treatments
A doctor can accurately diagnose Peyronie’s disease with a physical examination. During the exam, the doctor will look for any firm or tender areas of scar tissue. The severity of the curvature will likely provide the doctor with all of the information that is necessary to diagnose a patient with Peyronie’s disease.
Most men who have a curvature of the penis will not require any type of treatment. However, men who are suffering from pain or difficulty having intercourse as a result of penile shape may be offered injections or medications. Some men may opt to have surgery to correct penis shape and size. However, surgery can be quite invasive and isn’t an option for everyone suffering from this disease.
Many men are turning to GAINSWave® therapy — a cutting-edge, revolutionary treatment that is changing the way researchers view male sexual health. By using high-frequency, low-intensity soundwaves to break down scar tissue, men nationwide are gaining relief from Peyronie’s disease.
I Can Schedule GAINSWave Treatment Today
This 30-minute in-office treatment has little downtime and features virtually no side effects. After completing their GAINSWave therapy regimen, some clients have reported stronger orgasms, increased penis size, and a more natural penile shape. Backed by 30 clinical studies, GAINSWave therapy is proving to be a viable therapy for men struggling with Peyronie’s disease (a serious concern for American men). Every man deserves to have an enjoyable sex life.
For more information, you can find a GAINSWave therapy provider on our provider directory today. Men with Peyronie’s disease do not have to suffer alone anymore. Seek treatment in a medical office from licensed doctors.
