Recognizing Peyronie’s Disease Symptoms:
Peyronie’s disease can manifest gradually or rapidly, leading to various symptoms such as:
- Noticeable bend in the penis
- Erection problems
- Penile pain, with or without an erection
- Penile shortening or deformities, like narrowing or developing an hourglass shape
- Palpable scar tissue as lumps or tight bands under the skin
- Stress or anxiety due to concerns about sexual abilities
Understanding Disease Progression:
In many cases, Peyronie’s disease symptoms worsen initially but stabilize between 3-12 months after onset. While pain associated with erections may improve within 1-2 years, penile curvature and shortening often remain unchanged.
Exploring Risk Factors:
Peyronie’s disease is believed to have developed from a previous injury resulting in unusual scar tissue. Risk factors include:
- Age: Incidence increases in men in their 50s and 60s.
- Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions like Dupuytren’s contracture may increase the likelihood of penile curvature.
- Heredity: Having a family member with Peyronie’s disease elevates the risk of penile curvature