Cause unknown for spouse’s affliction

Dear Dr. Gott: My husband of 35 years suffers from Peyronie’s disease. The condition began about seven years ago, and it has progressed to the point that having sex is very difficult for him. He’s convinced it’s all my fault because we don’t have sex enough. He’s even moved out of the house and is seeking companionship in other places. Is there any connection to infrequent relations, or can it be linked to all the blood pressure medicines he’s been on?

Dear Reader: Peyronie’s disease is marked by progressive fibrosis (scarring) of the erectile cylinders on either side of the penis, leading to crooked erections that may make intercourse painful or impossible. The cause is unknown.

There is no evidence to suggest that the affliction in any way stems from too little (or too much) sexual activity or from prescription medication. Your husband is unfairly blaming you for his disorder. If he has moved out, there are probably other factors that have destabilized your marriage.

Perhaps some counseling is in order for both of you.

In any case, your husband should be aware that urologists have developed a number of surgical techniques to treat Peyronie’s disease. Rather than “seeking companionship in other places,” he would probably experience more satisfying sexual relations by obtaining treatment from appropriate medical professionals.

I should add that a wide variety of antihypertensive drugs do interfere with potency. This is a separate issue, however, that each patient should address with his doctor.

To give you related information regarding his hypertension, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hypertension.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: I’m a slim, 57-year-old woman with a bloated stomach, as if I were six months pregnant. I’ve been told the bloating is caused by stress. Can this be true?

Dear Reader: Stress and emotional upset can certainly cause poor digestion and the accompanying accumulation of gas and bloating.

However, before blaming emotional factors, you should have a medical checkup. For example, your symptoms could be caused by a variety of physical disorders ranging in severity from cancer and colitis to digestive disorders and an intolerance to milk sugar.

After examining and testing you with X-rays, ultrasound and blood analyses, the doctor should be able to suggest treatment, be it a change in diet, stress counseling or prescription medication.