Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Peyronie's Disease
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
Because the cause of Peyronie's disease is still unknown, it is difficult to plan a treatment that works for everyone. There is no definite cure for Peyronie's disease. Peyronie's disease and all of its symptoms may lessen or disappear in some individuals. Because of this, many experts recommend that a man wait 1 to 2 years before having surgery.
If the bend in the penis is so severe that intercourse is impossible, surgery may be recommended. Surgery may also be offered to men with erectile dysfunction. The scarring plaque that causes the bend may need to be removed or cut to straighten the penis. This usually affects the quality of erections. A penile implant may be inserted to improve erections.
Several medical treatments have been effective in small studies of men with Peyronie's disease. However, there are no large controlled studies to support these treatments. Further research is needed on these therapies, which include the following:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Paraaminobenzoate can cause loss of appetite, fever, or rash. Injections into the plaque may cause allergic reactions, infection, and further scarring. Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
If treatment is successful, the man will be able to have satisfying erections and sexual intercourse. Many times, however, the disease interferes with sexual function.
How is the disease monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.