Peyronie’s disease leads to the development of scar tissue in the penis. This scar tissue, also known as the plaque, appears and accumulates inside the tissues of a membrane called tunica albuginea. The buildup of the scar tissue leads to a bent or curved penis, which results in painful erections and inflammation or swelling of the penis.
Though Peyronie’s disease is not the same as erectile dysfunction, some men who suffer from Peyronie’s can face erectile dysfunction. Peyronie’s disease is not a life-threatening condition, but it is still important to follow certain steps to help one to treat the disease.
Check the risk factors
There are several causes and risk factors of Peyronie’s disease that comprise injury or an autoimmune disease. Also, people who indulge in vigorous sexual or nonsexual activities may also experience a microscopic injury to their penis. In some cases, genetics is also a cause of Peyronie’s disease.
Understanding the causes and risk factors can help one take the right steps toward preventing as well as treating Peyronie’s disease.
When to see a doctor
There are several complications and symptoms of Peyronie’s disease that can help one realize when to visit a doctor:
- A significant curve in the penis or shortening of the penis should be considered an indication to visit a doctor immediately.
- Another hint could be painful sexual intercourse or difficulty in performing sexual intercourse.
- In some cases, people who suffer from the disease also feel anxious about having sex.
Get a timely and correct diagnosis
A primary doctor will run the basic physical tests and identify the location of the scar tissue. Along with that, they might also suggest an ultrasound and X-ray to confirm the scar tissue’s presence and further refer the patient to a urologist.
Consider the treatment options
Once diagnosed, the patient is most likely to go through certain treatments. Although there is no cure for this disease, it can be managed, and it may also go away on its own sometimes.
Doctors often prescribe medications that are directly injected into the penis. If the condition is painful, they might operate and provide medication through surgery. It is important to ensure that the medication one is taking is FDA-approved medication for the disease.
There are certain non-surgical options as well that collectively help treat the condition:
- Shock wave therapy that breaks up the scar tissue
- Penile traction therapy that focuses on the stretch of the penis
- Vacuum devices
Natural remedies
Alongside the above-mentioned treatments, one can try some natural remedies to help expedite the effects of the treatment. Natural remedies often include following a healthy diet and lifestyle. A healthy diet is one that includes plenty of vegetables and fruits. Along with a healthy diet, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption also helps with the treatment. Introducing regular exercising to one’s daily routine is also important.
The right diet, a healthy sleep pattern, and an exercise routine together play a key role in treating Peyronie’s disease.
