It’s estimated that 1 in 11 men living in America have Peyronie’s disease, an often painful condition in which scar tissue builds up in the penis and causes discomfort and an abnormal penile curvature when a patient is sexually aroused. The disease is most commonly diagnosed in men aged 45 to 70.
Peyronie’s disease is classified in two stages.
- Acute Phase: Bending/curving in the penis worsens and pain may be present. The acute phase generally lasts 5-7 months, or up to 18 months in some rare cases.
- Chronic Phase: Bending/curving of the penis slows to a halt. Pain often subsides during the chronic phase.
While the exact cause of the disease isn’t clear, most experts agree that Peyronie’s is onset by repeated injury to the penis. This can be caused by athletic or sexual activity, or from an accident. As scar tissue begins to form, lumps in the penis may appear. When a man becomes erect, the scar tissue does not stretch like it once did, potentially causing a painful bend or other changes to the penis.
However, for some men, Peyronie’s is not linked to an injury. Age, existing health conditions, smoking, connective tissue diseases, a family history of Peyronie’s and various forms of prostate surgery all increase a man’s risk of developing the disease.
Peyronie’s Disease Complications:
- A bend or curve in the penis.
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, also called erectile dysfunction.
- Penile pain when flaccid or erect.
- Buildup of tender scar tissue.
- A change in the shape or length of the penis.
- Anxiety, stress or depression.
- Inability to have sex.
Despite the disease’s prevalence in men ages 45 to 70, young men are still at risk of developing Peyronie’s disease. Men that notice a small amount of curvature in their penis should not be concerned, but should practice watchful monitoring for signs and symptoms as they age.
Are you noticing signs of Peyronie’s disease? It’s important that you seek out the premier men’s urological health providers at Arkansas Urology. Because everyone deserves to live a pain-free life.
Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us today or book your appointment online. We look forward to seeing you soon.
