Peyronie's disease, despite the name, is not actually a disease that can be transmitting between people. In fact, it refers to a build-up of plaque inside the penis. Doctors remain unsure of what actually causes Peyronie's disease to develop, though trauma or genetics are considered likely candidates.

Most of the time, Peyronie's disease will correct itself and a doctor will not need to recommend any treatment. However, it's always worth having the issue checked by a professional, so make sure you see your local doctor if you notice some of the signs below.

1. Bent or Misshapen Penis

One of the most common symptoms of Peyronie's disease is a significant bend to the penis. Of course, penises can be slightly bent anyway, and that isn't a problem, but Peyronie's often results in a bent upwards, downwards, or to one side that wasn't previously present. This will be more visible while the penis is erect. Though rarer, you may also see a narrowing of parts of the penis, giving it something of an hourglass shape. A shortening of the penis is less likely to occur than a change in its shape or orientation, but it is possible that Peyronie's will shorten your penis. Don't worry, this is a temporary result.

2. Erection Problems

Peyronie's disease can sometimes cause erectile difficulties due to the discomfort associated with getting an erection or the increased weight on the penis. Of course, any change in the shape of the penis can make it psychologically harder to get an erection.

3. Pain While Erect

When Peyronie's disease creates a particularly large build-up of hardened plaque, it can severely hamper flexibility and the penis may be unable to stretch as it normally would. This will mean that the penis is less able to become straighter when you have an erection, and this can eventually cause pain. It is in cases where pain is caused that treatment for Peyronie's becomes more advisable, so this is a particularly important sign to take note of.

4. Lump Along the Penis

Finally, you may actually be able to feel the hardened plaque associated with Peyronie's beneath the skin of your penis. It will usually harden either as flat lumps or a singular band of tissue. Though a deposit can occur anywhere along the penis, it is most common on the upper side. At first, the build-up is likely to feel soft, but this can change over time as the plaque starts to become harder.