The signs and symptoms of Peyronie's Disease (PD) include:
- Penile deformity: PD causes a curvature or bending of the penis, which can be upward, downward, or to the side. This deformity can make sexual intercourse difficult or painful.
- Pain: During the acute phase of PD, there is often pain associated with the penile deformity. This pain can occur both when the penis is erect or flaccid. However, as the disease progresses into the chronic phase, the pain should diminish or disappear altogether.
- Erectile dysfunction: PD can affect the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. The curvature or plaque formation in the penis can interfere with blood flow, leading to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Changes in sexual habits: PD can impact a person's sexual habits and relationships. The deformity and pain associated with PD may lead to decreased sexual desire, anxiety, and relationship problems.
- Plaque formation: PD is characterized by the formation of fibrous plaques or scar tissue in the penis. These plaques can be felt as hard lumps or bands under the skin of the penis.
- Progression of symptoms: Without treatment, PD symptoms typically worsen over time. The penile deformity may become more pronounced, and the pain may increase during the acute phase.
It is important to note that the presence or absence of pain is a clear indicator of which phase of PD the patient is in. During the acute phase, the symptoms worsen and are often painful, while the chronic phase is characterized by stable symptoms and diminished or no pain.