What causes Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease (also known as “penile curvature”) is a noncancerous buildup of scar tissue in the penis, resulting in significant bending and pain during an erection. The disease is believed to be caused by injuries to the penis due to sexual or athletic activity or from an accident. Minor injuries to the penis don’t always lead to Peyronie’s, but age, heredity and connective tissue disorders can lead to increased risk of the disease.

Studies indicate that 9% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 suffer from Peyronie’s disease, although this number is likely higher, due to potential embarrassment and hesitancy to report symptoms to their doctor.

The disease may also cause erectile dysfunction. However, many men report experiencing the effects of ED prior to Peyronie’s symptoms. Symptoms of Peyronie’s disease include: excess scar tissue and a significant bend in the penis, shortening of the penis, penile pain, erectile dysfunction and deformities in penile shape.

Peyronie’s disease rarely goes away on its own, remaining as is or worsening without treatment. No matter how long the symptoms of Peyronie’s have been bothering you, treatment can relieve discomfort, curvature and improve penile shortening.

Recommended treatments are based on a patient’s history, including: experiencing symptoms for less than six months, greater than six months and the presence or absence of ED.

Urologists recommend treatments that begin with watchful observation and oral medication, potentially followed by injection therapy, Penile Traction Therapy or surgical correction.

Peyronie’s disease doesn’t have to cause you stress and anxiety. Seek advanced, life-changing treatment from the specialists at Arkansas Urology today!