Peyronie's Disease
There are many different penis disorders that can occur. Some are most notable for their pain and discomfort, while others present visible marks on the penis. One such disease that causes a visible mark is known as Peyronie's Disease.
What is Peyronie's Disease?
Discovered in 1743 by a French surgeon, Peyronie's disease is a penis disorder that results in a lump of plaque that forms on the penis. Generally, the lump of plaque will occur on the top of the penis, but can also form on the bottom, and it will often develop into scar on the penis. The lump will often cause curvature of the penis either upward or downward, depending on the location of the lump.
What Causes Peyronie's Disease?
Peyronie's disease is thought to develop due to trauma of the penis, specifically occurring when the penis is bent in an odd way or hit in such a manner that internal bleeding occurs. Injury to the penis resulting in Peyronie's disease can also be caused by surgery, specifically catheterization or a prostatectomy.
Additionally, some researchers believe that this disease can be inherited because this disease occurs more commonly in men who have family members with the same condition.
Other causes noted by researchers have been a deficiency in Vitamin E, diabetes, reaction to antihypertensive drugs, and infection.
What are the symptoms of Peyronie's Disease?
While the most obvious symptom of this disease is the lump of plaque that forms on the penis, there are several other symptoms that can occur.
The following are symptoms of this disease:
- Curving of the penis
- Pain
- Distortion of the penis
- Hardening of penis
- Shortening of the penis
- Impotence
- Partial Erection
What Should You Do if You Have Symptoms of Peyronie's Disease?
If you notice any of the above symptoms, the first thing that you should consider is consulting your family doctor or a urologist. These doctors will be able to diagnose you more accurately and create a treatment plan for you.
It's also important to talk to your partner about your symptoms and suggest that he/she come with you to see your family doctor or urologist. Peyronie's Disease can be psychologically damaging, so having a strong support system will prove to be extremely helpful throughout the process.
How is Peyronie's Disease Treated?
The treatment plan prescribed for this disease truly depends on the cause for the existence of the disease in the penis.
The following are some common treatment plans for the disease:
- The use of chemicals to break down the plaque
- Radiation treatment
- Surgery (which is only recommended after a one to two years of other treatments)
- Vitamin E
Once a treatment plan is developed, Peyronie's disease can clear up almost instantly. However, catching this disease in time is extremely important. As with any disease, the sooner you catch it, the better the outcome will be. Immediately consult a physician if you feel that you have any of these symptoms or are experiencing a great discomfort with your penis.
