Peyronie’s disease is a male sexual disease that causes significant penis bending and discomfort. Severe penile curvature makes sexual activity difficult for men. Peyronie’s disease (PD) is not a particularly prevalent male condition worldwide, but the number of patients is increasing rapidly. Modern treatments for this disease have advanced significantly, but it still remains a difficult disorder to treat. In this article we will discuss the ancient as well as modern treatment methods for Peyronie’s disease.
History of PD
In 1743, French surgeon Francois Gigot de la Peyronie discovered and first described Peyronie’s disease. The initial description of the condition by Francois Gigot de la Peyronie was based on a series of cases he had observed in his own practice. He noticed that males with PD typically had thickened penile tissue, resulting in a curvature during erection. Frequently, this curvature made sexual activity challenging or impossible. Peyronie also observed that the condition was more prevalent in older individuals and hypothesised that it may be associated with gout or rheumatism.
Following Peyronie’s initial description of the disease, others began to report cases of what they termed “induratio penis plastica,” or penile induration. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the condition was inadequately understood, and numerous theories were advanced to explain its cause. Some physicians believed that Peyronie’s Disease was caused by inflammation or trauma to the penis, while others hypothesized that a bacterial or viral infection could be to blame. Later, scientists determined the disease had two stages. These were the acute and chronic stages.
The initial phase of Peyronie’s disease is the acute phase, which is marked by penis discomfort and inflammation. During this stage, fibrous scar tissue begins to form, causing the penis to deform or curve during erections. Curvature can be mild or severe and can occur in any direction.
During the acute phase of Peyronie’s disease, the following symptoms may be present:
- Pain or sensitivity of the genitalia
- Enlargement or inflammation
- A mass or ridge in the penis
- Dysfunction of erection
- Difficulties with sexual relations
- Depression or anxiety related to the ailment
In most cases, the acute phase of Peyronie’s disease lasts between 6 and 12 months, although it can last longer.
The second phase of Peyronie’s disease is characterized by the hardening and stabilization of the fibrous scar tissue, which ceases to develop. During this stage, the penis’ curvature may become more pronounced, and as a consequence, Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction may worsen. In most cases, however, the discomfort and inflammation subside.
The chronic phase of Peyronie’s disease may be characterized by the following symptoms:
- The natural penile curvature during erection
- Dysfunction of erection
- Difficulties with sexual relations
- Shrinkage of the penis
A reliable source of information, and experiences of actual sufferers can be found at the Peyronies Forum
Ancient Treatments for PD
There were not many effective remedies for Peyronie’s disease in ancient times, primarily due to a lack of knowledge about the disease. However, this does not imply that there were no treatments for this condition. For instance, the person who first discovered Peyronie’s disease recommended spa treatments with mineral water for patients. Later in the 19th century, it was proposed to treat PD with oral and topical mercury and iodides. Mercury was believed to be efficacious due to the presumed link between PD and syphilis. On the contrary, iodides were believed to be effective due to their alleged curative properties. Even oral disodium phosphate was proposed as a treatment for PD at the time.
In the 1970s, a medication called verapamil was injected directly into the fibrous plaques as a new treatment for Peyronie’s disease. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker that has been used to treat elevated blood pressure and other conditions for many years. Studies demonstrated that injecting verapamil into fibrous plaques could aid in the breakdown of collagen and the reduction of penile curvature.
Modern Treatments for PD
As a result of technological advancements and increased understanding of this disease, PD can now be treated with a variety of methods.
Oral Medications: Pentoxifylline, colchicine, and vitamin E are used to treat Peyronie’s disease in men all over the globe. However, it is essential to note that these medications can have negative effects on the body. Before taking these medications, it is always necessary to consult an experienced medical professional.
Injections: With intralesional injections of collagenase and verapamil, plaque reduction and penile curvature can also be accomplished.
Topical medicines: Nitro-glycerine and potassium para-aminobenzoate, which are topical agents, may also be utilized to treat PD.
Nesbit Procedure: The Nesbit Procedure is a surgical procedure that entails reducing the length of the penis to reduce the curvature.
Tunica plication: This surgical procedure entails folding and suturing the tunica albuginea on the shorter side of the penis to minimize the curvature.
Grafting: In the grafting procedure, a tissue graft is used to treat the curvature and cover the defect in the tunica albuginea.
Penile Vacuum Pumps: Vacuum erectile devices (VED) for Peyronie’s disease or penile vacuum pumps do not target the lesions of the penis, but instead reduce several symptoms of PD. These devices extend penile tissues, resulting in a straightened penis.
Photoactivation: This treatment aides in the healing of the body by affecting the mitochondria of the cells. It is also a contemporary method of treatment.
Shockwave Therapy: Shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease is a non-invasive treatment option that utilizes special shockwaves to break down plaques and enhance penis blood flow. It is a relatively recent treatment option that was initially designed to dissolve kidney stones.
EMTT Therapy: EMTT therapy, also known as extracorporeal magnetotransduction therapy, is a non-invasive treatment technique that employs a strong magnetic field. Both EMTT therapy and shockwave therapy can be used concurrently to treat PD effectively.
Modifications to one’s way of life, including physical exercise, penile exercise, a nutritious diet, weight management, and quitting smoking, can enhance men’s overall health. These activities can enhance men’s penile and overall health.
Side effects of some PD treatments
Several Peyronie’s disease treatments can have negative side effects. For instance, vitamin E overdose symptoms and side effects include haemorrhage and adverse drug interactions. Colchicine side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, muscle pain, peripheral numbness, bleeding, bruising, sore throat, fever, and shivers, among others. Many men must undergo surgical procedures to address their PD, as the disease can be difficult to treat in some cases. Infection, swelling, and even a shortening of the penis is some of the severe adverse effects associated with these surgical procedures. So, it is evident that several PD treatments can have a wide range of side-effects. Non-surgical treatment options and penis exercises, on the other hand, do not have these adverse effects and are generally quite safe.
How to avoid PD
Despite the fact that Peyronie’s disease can be a genetic issue for some males, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of its development. Initially, you should always strive to live a healthful lifestyle. Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use. Follow a healthy diet and exercise routinely. By following these methods, you can enhance your sexual and overall health. Most importantly, avoid penile injuries at all costs. Avoid participating in certain sports that may cause penile injuries. Try to protect your penile and pelvic region at all times, even if you perform these sports or participate in activities that can cause penile damage. As both sexual activity and masturbation can cause penile harm, you should avoid these activities at all costs.
Conclusion
Since its discovery, Peyronie’s disease treatment methods have advanced significantly. Numerous men have been able to free themselves of this disease and reclaim a healthy sexual life thanks to modern invasive and non-invasive treatments. If you are suffering from PD, don’t panic. Stay calm and seek professional help. With proper treatment management you can hope to get treated from this disease.
