Peyronie’s disease is one of the most common conditions that affect men’s sexual health. It is characterized by the formation of scar tissue inside the penis, causing it to become curved.
The curvature of the penis can result in a range of symptoms, including discomfort, pain, and reduced sexual function, which can significantly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
Let’s discuss Peyronie’s disease and some of the most effective pain management strategies that can help combat Peyronie’s disease-related pain and provide hope to those in need of support.
What is Peyronie’s Disease?
Peyronie’s disease is a condition that affects a man’s penis. It happens when some scar tissue, called plaque, forms inside the penis. This plaque is not the kind you find on your teeth, but a kind of hard lump.
Because of this scar tissue, the penis might not be as flexible as before. When a man with Peyronie’s disease has an erection, the penis may bend or curve. This bend can be slight or more severe, depending on how much scar tissue there is.
This curve can make it difficult and sometimes painful for a man to have intercourse. In some cases, the pain might even prevent the man from having intercourse.
Management Strategies for Peyronie’s Disease Pain
Here are some of the pain management strategies for Peyronie’s disease.
Medication
One of the most common ways to manage pain related to Peyronie’s disease is through medication. There are several types of drugs that can be used to alleviate pain, such as over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
These medications can reduce discomfort and inflammation. If your Peyronie’s disease-related pain is severe, your urologist may suggest prescription pain relief medication like opioids.
Injections
Some urologists may recommend injecting certain medications into the penis to help alleviate Peyronie’s disease-related pain.
Verapamil is a type of medication that can be injected into the penis to reduce pain and soften the scar tissue and plaques responsible for the curvature of the penis. Additionally, Xiaflex can be injected into the scarred area to help dissolve the tissue.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
This is a non-surgical treatment where a medical device that generates sound waves is used on the penis. While it may not significantly reduce curvature or restore full erectile function, studies have found that ESWT can effectively alleviate the pain associated with Peyronie’s disease.
Penile Traction Device
A penile traction device is designed to gently stretch the penis, reducing curvature and alleviating pain over time. This treatment should be used under the supervision of your urologist.
Mind-Body Techniques
The emotional stress associated with Peyronie’s disease can exacerbate physical symptoms. Mind-body techniques can help manage this stress and, in turn, the physical discomfort.
- Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing can trigger the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
- Meditation: Meditation can help you gain a better understanding of your pain and develop coping strategies
Heat Therapy
Heat therapy, also known as thermotherapy, involves applying heat to specific areas of the body. In the context of Peyronie’s disease, it can be particularly beneficial.
When heat is applied to the penis, it causes the blood vessels in that area to expand. This increase in blood flow can help deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
There are several ways to apply heat. A common method is to use a warm washcloth or a heating pad. Always ensure the heat source is not too hot to avoid burns, and limit application to 15-20 minutes at a time.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes can also help manage Peyronie’s disease-related pain. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise can all help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help manage pain.
Additionally, avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can also help reduce pain and discomfort.
Surgery
This option is typically suggested for individuals experiencing severe curvature due to Peyronie’s disease who have been pain-free for the last 6 to 12 months.
The surgical procedures can involve:
- The removal of plaques
- Reducing the curvature by shortening one side of the penis
- Implanting a prosthesis to assist in maintaining an erection
Peyronie’s Disease Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
Living with Peyronie’s disease can be challenging, but managing the pain is possible with the right strategies.
At Ironwood Urology, our Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr offers a vast array of non-surgical and surgical treatment options to address painful symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. Our urologist will thoroughly assess your symptoms, medical history, and current health condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
