Peyronie’s disease, a curvature or bend in the penis, is an unusual disease not often spoken about. The bend is often caused by a lump of scar tissue on the penis. Naturally, many men have some fears and questions regarding the condition and there are some myths and misconceptions circulating regarding Peyronie’s Disease.
While it is always best to discuss your concerns with a urologist, such as Dr. Katelaris, this short article may clarify some common misconceptions around Peyronie’s Disease.
1. Peyronie’s only affects older men
This is not necessarily true. It may be more common amongst older men, however, as Dr. Katelaris explains in this video about Peyronie’s disease risk factors, any man can contract Peyronie’s disease. There is no main determining cause. It just happens – in younger or older men.
2. Surgery is the only treatment
This is not exactly correct. As Dr. Katelaris explains in this video, the treatment of Peyronie’s disease is largely individualised from patient to patient. The type of surgery also depends on the impact the Peyronie’s is having on the penis and a male’s overall health. However, if a man can live with Peyronie’s without any impact on day-to-day functioning and sexual activity, treatment may not be required.
3. Peyronie’s Disease can go away on its own.
Sometimes Peyronie’s disease will resolve on its own. This is especially true if a man can continue to actively have erections because this stretches the plaque and prevents contraction of the penis.
Nevertheless, this should not be relied on as an outcome. Always consult a urologist if your symptoms persist for four weeks or longer.
4. It can cause complications
A lot of men, when they feel a lump in their penis, think they have cancer and panic, which is understandable. For the most part, though a lump in the penis is not likely to be cancerous.
The good news is that Peyronie’s disease in some men does not cause any harm at all. It is just a palpable lump. It should be noted too, if the erection is normal, and they can have normal sexual intercourse.
However, if ignored, symptoms may increase in severity. Affected men may also experience some depression and anxiety around the reduced functioning of their penis.
5. Peyronie’s disease will impact sex life
This is not always the case. Men with Peyronie’s are encouraged to continue their sexual activity, if possible, to help stretch the penis. If left untreated, a man might eventually find it difficult to get an erection.
Many men with advanced Peyronie’s disease report that their penis only gets hard up to the point of the lump or knot. Other men report that sexual intercourse has become virtually impossible due to the now distorted shape of their penis and the pain caused by Peyronie’s disease.
If you are concerned about a lump or bend in the penis, do not hesitate to get in touch with our specialist team at Katelaris Urology.
