Gleet is a medical term referring to a persistent, often thin, discharge, typically from the urethra. It is a symptom of an underlying health issue rather than a condition itself. This type of discharge signals an inflammation or irritation within the genitourinary tract, indicating a need for professional medical evaluation.
Characteristics of Gleet
Gleet typically presents as a thin, watery, or mucoid discharge. Its appearance can range from clear to whitish, sometimes with a slight opacity. Unlike thicker, purulent discharges often associated with acute infections, gleet is generally less viscous and can be chronic or intermittent, appearing for extended periods or intermittently. It may be scant, sometimes only noticeable as crusting at the urethral opening or staining on underwear.
While acute urethral discharges, such as those from gonorrhea, are often thick and pus-like, gleet’s more subtle nature can lead to it being overlooked or dismissed. The presence of gleet suggests a less intense but ongoing inflammatory process within the urethra. It reflects a condition where the mucous membrane lining the urethra remains irritated, producing this characteristic secretion.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Gleet commonly manifests as urethritis, an inflammation of the urethra. Urethritis can arise from various sources, with the most frequent being sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU), urethral inflammation not caused by gonorrhea, is a common cause.
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial cause of NGU, accounting for a significant percentage of cases, ranging from 15% to 55%. Other organisms, such as Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum, are also recognized as causes of NGU. In some instances, Trichomonas vaginalis, a parasite, can also lead to urethritis and associated discharge. Non-infectious causes, though rarer, can include trauma to the urethra or irritation from chemicals like soaps or creams.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Gleet warrants a consultation with a healthcare provider. While the discharge may not seem severe, it signals an underlying condition requiring diagnosis and treatment. Self-diagnosis or delayed medical attention is not advisable; untreated infections can lead to serious complications. For example, untreated urethritis can result in epididymitis or prostatitis in men, and spread infections to sexual partners.
A medical professional can determine the cause through various diagnostic tests, including physical examination, urethral swabs, and urine tests, to identify the specific pathogen or irritant. Early and accurate diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment, which typically involves antibiotics for bacterial infections. Addressing the underlying cause is important for resolving the symptom of gleet and preventing potential long-term health issues.