Peyronie's Disease: Causes, Side Effects, and Treatment Options

Peyronie's Disease: Causes, Side Effects, and Treatment Options

Peyronie's disease is a condition that causes an erection to curve slightly or significantly in the opposite direction of the bend. It can cause painful erections, bruising and curvature of the penis. The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is unknown, but it’s more common in men who are over 40 years old and also those who have diabetes or are prone to injuries such as repeated sports activities. There is no specific treatment for Peyronie’s disease, but there are several measures you can take to manage its symptoms and prevent it from getting worse. Here is everything you need to know about this condition and its effective treatments.

What is Peyronie's Disease?

Peyronie's disease is a condition that causes curvature of the penis and sometimes painful erections, swelling, and bruising. The disease is caused by a buildup of scar tissue inside the penis, usually on the upper side, which can lead to an abnormal bend in the penis. This bend can cause pain and erectile dysfunction. Peyronie's disease can also cause depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship problems. The disease is not infectious, so it is not necessary to change sexual practices and it is not contagious. The disease is not life-threatening and can be treated. Peyronie's disease is a condition in which there is a buildup of fibrous and connective tissue inside the penis, causing it to curve and deform. It occurs in about 10% of men, usually after the age of 40. It affects men of all races and ethnic groups.


Risk Factors for Peyronie's Disease

• Age:

As you get older, the risk of developing the disease increases. In fact, the majority of cases present after the age of 40.

• Genetics:

Men who have a family history of Peyronie’s disease are at a greater risk of developing the disease.

• Diabetes:

It is believed that persons with diabetes are more likely to develop this condition.

• Frequent injury:

Persons who participate in activities that involve repetitive injury or trauma to the penis such as gymnasts, swimmers, and construction workers are at a higher risk of developing this condition.

• Smoking:

Men who smoke are more likely to develop this condition.

Symptoms of Peyronie's Disease

• Curvature of the penis:

The most common symptom is a curved erection, which can make sexual intercourse difficult or impossible. In some cases, the curvature of the penis may be so severe that it causes the tip of the penis to point toward the abdomen.

• Hard nodules along the length of the penis:

In some cases, hard nodules can appear along the length of the penis. These nodules can be painful.

• Swelling and tenderness of the penis:

Swelling and tenderness may occur in the penis.

• Painful erections:

Some men with Peyronie’s disease experience painful erections. These erections are usually more painful than normal.


Treatment Options for Peyronie's Disease

• Surgery:

The most common treatment for Peyronie’s disease is surgery. By removing the diseased tissue, the surgeon can correct the curvature of the penis and any painful erections.

• Combined therapy:

Another common treatment for Peyronie’s disease is a combination of oral drugs and/or injections, which can help to prevent the disease from progressing or heal an existing curvature.


Peyronie's disease is a condition that causes an erection to curve slightly or significantly in the opposite direction of the bend. It is caused by a buildup of scar tissue inside the penis, which can lead to an abnormal bend in the penis. The disease can cause painful erections, bruising and curvature of the penis. The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is unknown, but it’s more common in men who are over 40 years old and also those who have diabetes or are prone to injuries such as repeated sports activities. There is no specific treatment for Peyronie’s disease, but there are several measures you can take to manage its symptoms and prevent it from getting worse.