Unexplained Bumps on the Back Left Side of Tongue: What to Know

Q: Unexplained Bumps on the Back Left Side of Tongue: What to Know

Hello： Upon initial examination, it appears to be circumvallate papillae at the base of the tongue. <br>If there are no obvious symptoms, it should be normal tissue. <br>If you are concerned, you may seek medical evaluation for confirmation. <br>Wishing you peace and good health.

A non-painful, non-itchy lump is present on the left posterior side of the tongue?

Hello Dr.
Zheng, a few months ago I noticed that there are noticeable granular formations on the left posterior side of my tongue, but there are none on the right side.
Since it is not painful or itchy and does not affect my daily activities, I did not pay much attention to it.
(The affected area is quite deep; I have to stick my tongue out forcefully and press with my finger to feel it.) However, recently after eating, I occasionally experience a slight foreign body sensation, but it is not pain or itching.
Today I tried to take some photos, and upon seeing them, I realized it seems quite serious...
I also checked the right posterior side of my tongue, and there are no such granules there.
Here are the photos: Photo 1 link: https://i.imgur.com/3LBAd1A.jpg Photo 2 link: https://i.imgur.com/5w5adUC.jpg My girlfriend and I are currently in a long-distance relationship, meeting about once a month, and during our intimate moments, we do engage in oral activities.
I appreciate your help, thank you very much.

A Xin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/12

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Upon initial examination, it appears to be circumvallate papillae at the base of the tongue.
If there are no obvious symptoms, it should be normal tissue.
If you are concerned, you may seek medical evaluation for confirmation.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/01/12

More Info

When it comes to unexplained bumps on the back left side of the tongue, it's important to approach the situation with a combination of awareness and caution. While you mentioned that the bumps are not painful, itchy, or affecting your daily life, any new or unusual growths in the oral cavity should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

The bumps you described could be a variety of things. Some common causes of bumps on the tongue include:
1. Lingual Papillae Hypertrophy: The tongue is covered with small bumps called papillae, which can become enlarged due to irritation, inflammation, or certain dietary factors. This is often harmless and may resolve on its own.

2. Canker Sores: These are small, painful ulcers that can appear on the tongue and other areas of the mouth. They are usually self-limiting and can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes.

3. Oral Thrush: This is a fungal infection caused by Candida, which can lead to white patches or bumps on the tongue. It is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who use inhaled corticosteroids.

4. Geographic Tongue: This benign condition causes irregular patches on the tongue that can appear as bumps. The exact cause is unknown, but it is not harmful.

5. Oral HPV: Human Papillomavirus can cause growths in the mouth, including warts or lesions. Some strains are associated with a higher risk of oral cancer, so it's important to have any unusual growths evaluated.

6. Other Lesions: There are various other conditions, including benign tumors, cysts, or even early signs of oral cancer, that could present as bumps on the tongue.

Given that you have noticed these bumps for several months and they have recently started to cause a sensation of foreign body presence, it is advisable to seek a consultation with a dentist or an oral surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging or a biopsy if necessary, to determine the nature of the bumps.

In your case, the fact that the bumps are only on one side and have changed in sensation warrants further investigation. While many oral lesions are benign, it is crucial to rule out any serious conditions, especially if there are changes in size, color, or sensation.

Additionally, considering your sexual health, it's important to practice safe oral sex to minimize the risk of transmitting infections, including HPV. If you have had any recent changes in your sexual health or any symptoms in your partner, it would be wise to discuss these with your healthcare provider as well.

In summary, while the bumps on your tongue may not currently be causing significant discomfort, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and management. Early detection and treatment of any potential issues can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Tongue Bumps: Causes and When to See a Doctor

Hello, doctor. I suddenly feel pain in my throat when swallowing and have noticed raised, unclear bumps or blisters near the back of my tongue. There are bumps on both sides of the tongue, with the right side being more painful. What could this condition be, and if the symptoms p...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
The sides of the tongue contain lymphoid tissue, while the taste buds are located at the back of the front part of the tongue. Due to the inability to observe the condition, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngology clinic for diagnosis. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Tongue Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Dental Care

Recently, I noticed a small bump on the lower left side of my tongue. It feels like a raised area within the tongue (it looks normal, but when I touch it, there is a bump). It is not painful. Thank you.

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry
Please go to the oral surgery department of the dental clinic for further examination.

White Spots and Painful Bumps on the Back of the Tongue: What to Know

Hello Doctor, I have recently experienced a sudden tingling sensation in my mouth. Upon looking in the mirror, I noticed that there are lesions on the back of my tongue, both on the midline and to the sides. The left side is problematic, as it is somewhat painful and the tip of t...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: The image appears to show mild inflammation of the papillary structures on the lingual frenulum. The cause of the inflammation may be due to smoking, betel nut use, or other physical or chemical irritants, or it could simply be a viral infection. It is recommended that you...

White Bumps on the Left Side of the Tongue: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. I recently noticed white granulation on the left side of my tongue, resembling hyperplastic tissue. It is not painful. As shown in the image, my dentist discovered it during a cleaning and suspects it may be caused by dental occlusion. I would like to know if furth...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It does appear to be a granuloma or epidermal hyperplasia. We can start with observation; however, if an ulcer develops and persists for more than two weeks without improvement or if there is ongoing pain, a biopsy should be performed. Wishing you safety and health. Sincer...