Facing Peyronie’s disease can be isolating. It can feel like your body has betrayed you, leaving you anxious about the future. This condition, marked by a curvature of the penis, often appears suddenly, impacting your physical and emotional well-being. Understanding your Peyronie’s disease treatment options is the first step to reclaiming your confidence.
Many men grapple with Peyronie’s disease in silence. It’s a personal issue that can be difficult to discuss, even with a medical professional. But you are not alone, and effective treatments are available.
Understanding Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease involves scar tissue, or plaque, forming within the tunica albuginea of the penis. This plaque causes the penis to bend or curve during erections, often leading to pain. This may also cause difficulties with intercourse.
It primarily affects men over 40. However, Peyronie’s can also impact younger men. Continuing medical education is helping health care professionals better understand and treat this condition.
Causes of Peyronie’s Disease
The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease remains unknown. However, some factors might contribute to plaque formation. Micro-traumas during sex, especially with a less-than-rigid penis, can cause tears and inflammation. Sometimes Peyronie’s appears without noticeable triggers.
Genetics may play a role, along with certain medical conditions and medications. Further research, such as clinical trials, is ongoing to fully understand the causes of this men’s health concern.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease presents various symptoms that differ between individuals. A palpable lump or band of hard tissue under the skin of the penis is common. This correlates with penile curvature.
Erections may become painful. Some men experience difficulties with penetration due to bending and loss of girth. A urologist diagnoses Peyronie’s through a physical exam.
Imaging, like an ultrasound, may be used. Contact Austin Urologists at 512-238-0762 for more information or to request an appointment.
Peyronie’s Disease Treatment Options
About 15% of Peyronie’s disease cases resolve independently. However, waiting isn’t recommended if you’re experiencing pain. The curve can worsen over time, impacting your quality of life.
Erectile dysfunction may also occur. The right treatment depends on your specific circumstances. Consulting with a care provider about Peyronie’s disease care is essential.
Non-Surgical Peyronie’s Disease Treatment
Non-surgical options may be suitable during the acute phase. This is when the plaque is still forming and pain is present. This might involve watchful waiting and pain management with over-the-counter medications.
Stretching exercises and penile traction therapy might also be recommended. Medications, such as Xiaflex or pentoxifylline, may have a role in specific cases. Discuss available options with a urologist.
Xiaflex, an injectable medication, helps break down scar tissue. It works well for most patients, with those with mild curvatures responding faster. Those with larger bends may need more extensive Peyronie’s disease treatment.
Pentoxifylline is usually prescribed in pill format for three to four months. It’s used for some types of erectile dysfunction. The effectiveness of Pentoxifylline in Peyronie’s disease treatment is not clearly established.
Oral medications, topical verapamil, and even Vitamin E can help with management. Xiaflex injections are often the more effective Peyronie’s disease treatment when appropriate.
Surgical Peyronie’s Disease Treatment
Surgical intervention provides long-term relief for severe curvature or when other treatments are ineffective. Surgical procedures can help straighten the penis.
These surgeries include plaque incision/excision with grafting and penile plication. These procedures offer an alternative to a penile implant. Talk to your physician at NAU at 512-238-0762 for assistance. They can provide medical education regarding treatment options.
Plication shortens the unaffected side of the penis to achieve straightening. Excision and grafting removes the plaque, especially for more significant curvatures.
This prevents significant shortening. Some approaches require microsurgical expertise due to the delicate penile anatomy involved.
Penile prosthesis placement can improve firmness and address mild curvature. This is typically reserved as a secondary intervention. In rare cases, this alone may not fully correct bends.
Living with Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease can affect self-esteem and intimacy. Talking to your partner can be beneficial. Consider seeking counseling or joining a support group. These provide valuable coping strategies and encouragement.
While treatments like Xiaflex, pentoxifylline, and Vitamin E help break down plaque, some residual curvature may remain. This is often an improvement and may not interfere with comfortable sex.
Those needing more correction can benefit from minimally invasive procedures. Contact Austin Urologists or book your appointment online for relief.
Conclusion
Peyronie’s disease treatment presents challenges. However, effective remedies are available. These remedies can lessen its impact and restore confidence. Open communication with your care professional is crucial.
You can reclaim comfortable and normal erectile function. Informed decisions and strategies are key. This empowers you to live a more fulfilling life while effectively managing Peyronie’s disease. The Mayo Clinic provides resources and information on Peyronie’s disease, men’s health, and connective tissue disorders.