Abnormal curvature of the penis may sound like a minor issue that simply has aesthetic consequences but unfortunately, Peyronie’s disease is a lot more than that. If you’re suffering from the problem, chances are that you have questions about it.
In the following FAQ section, we’ll try to address some of the most common inquiries and provide information about the condition that so many men are still unaware of.
When Was It First Identified?
Peyronie’s disease isn’t a modern development, in fact, it has been around for centuries. The medical problem was initially identified and described in 1743 by Francois de la Peyronie – the medical professional that the condition is named after.
Francois de la Peyronie was a surgeon in the court of king Louis XIV.
How Does It Affect The Penis?
The most common way in which Peyronie’s disease affects the penis is through abnormal curvature.
Peyronie’s disease is characterized by the formation of scar tissue or plaque. This scar tissue usually appears on one side of the shaft, making the penis get curved. Bigger scar tissues will usually contribute to more severe curvature.
The curvature, however, isn’t the only penile aspect affected by Peyronie’s disease. Some men experience shortening of the penis because of the scar tissue getting formed.
Others see a change in the girth of the penis. In the most severe cases, Peyronie’s disease could lead to painful erections or erectile dysfunction altogether.
Are There Risk Factors?
According to researchers, age and genetics are the two most common factors that can contribute to a higher risk of developing Peyronie’s disease. The condition is most common among men aged 55 or older.
A couple of other risk factors worth mentioning include:
- Connective tissue disorders
- Cigarette smoking
- Prostate surgery
- Certain medications
- Certain medical conditions (diabetes and circulatory disorders)
How Many Men Are Affected By Peyronie’s Disease?
According to researchers, anywhere between five and seven percent of men are affected by Peyronie’s disease. It’s difficult to come up with an exact number because many of the individuals suffering from the condition are too embarrassed to seek medical attention.
According to the Association of Peyronie’s Disease Advocates (APDA), more than nine percent of all men experienced curved penis issues during one point of their life or another.
Early microscopic changes and very small plaque formation occur in numerous men. It’s very rare, however, for these early developments to turn in a full-blown condition that affects wellbeing and the sexual life of a man.
Is It Possible To Prevent Getting Peyronie’s Disease?
Peyronie’s disease prevention is impossible – even perfectly healthy men that don’t have any bad habits are prone to experiencing the condition. As men get older, however, it’s a good idea to see a medical professional frequently for a regular urological checkup.
Are There Treatments?
Several treatment options are possible (more about treatments can be found here) and all of them could lead to serious improvements. Choosing one treatment or the other will be dependent on individual preferences.
Small scar tissue could be addressed through supplements and medications. A range of pharmaceuticals can be used to cause plaque breakdown. Alternatively, medical professionals will recommend Peyronie’s disease surgery.
The surgery is very effective but it comes with risk of infections, potential loss of sensitivity in the penis or erectile dysfunction (whenever nerves and blood vessels are affected by the surgery).
One of the safest ways to treat Peyronie’s disease involves the use of a proper extender. A penis extension device is used to stretch the penile tissue away from the body for a few hours every single day.
The extender causes tissue breakdown because of which, cells start to replicate rapidly. This formation of new tissue evens out the two sides of the penis, dealing with the abnormal curvature and reducing the angle.
The only downside is that the use of penis extension devices necessitates persistent use for a couple of months to deliver results.
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