Do I have Peyronie’s Disease? When to See the Urologist

Peyronie’s disease is the development of rigid scar tissue within the penis, which can lead to abnormal curvature, painful erections, shortening of the penis, or even erectile dysfunction. Men’s penises exist in various shapes, so a curved erection is not necessarily an indicator of the disease. However, if it is coupled with pain or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection, it may be time to see your urologist.

Risk factors that can increase the chance of Peyronie’s disease include aging, penile trauma, surgery for prostate cancer, smoking, connective tissue disorders, and a family history of the disease.

Signs of Peyronie’s Disease

• A significant bend in the erect penis: once again, many men have curved erections, so this symptom alone is not necessarily an indicator of Peyronie’s disease. However, if it has a significant bend (such as a 45° angle), or a widening, narrowing, or even hourglass shape, this could indicate something is wrong.
• Erectile dysfunction: Peyronie’s disease, which involves pain, and the abnormal manipulation of the penis, can lead to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. As with most of the symptoms of Peyronie’s, however, the symptom itself is not necessarily an indicator but rather when coupled with others on the list.
• Gradual shortening of the penis: Peyronie’s disease can occur due to a traumatic injury to the penis, such as one occurring during sex. If you have sustained an injury to your penis, and notice it gradually shortening when erect, a visit to the doctor may be warranted. It should also be noted, however, that any injury sustained to the penis should be dialogued with a medical professional, regardless of abnormalities, as a preventive measure.
• Scar tissue: rigid bands, plates, or scar tissue patches cause Peyronie’s disease. That being said, these areas can usually be felt under the skin of the penis in the form of rigid or restricted areas, especially ones near any bend.
• Pain is one of the most common exhibited by Peyronie’s disease and may be present either with or without an erection.

Treatment for Peyronie’s disease is designed to break down the collagen fibers and scar tissue causing pain. This may include stretching the penis, removing the scar tissue, surgical straightening, the implantation of a penile device, or a vacuum-assisted device to enable an erection.

If you exhibit any of these symptoms or are worried about the possibility of Peyronie’s disease, you should see a urologist. Only a qualified physician can diagnose and treat Peyronie’s disease or any other medical condition. If necessary, your doctor can determine if you have the disorder and advise you about a surgical correction.

If you want more information about Peyronie’s disease or any other urological issue, please get in touch with Carolina Urology Partners at (704) 786-5131 today. Dr. Richard Natale is a board-certified urologist with specialized experience in men’s health. You can also request an appointment online.