Painful Tongue Bumps: Causes and Treatments

Q: Painful Tongue Bumps: Causes and Treatments

Hello： For recurrent polyps, the first step is to identify the cause, which may be due to infection or other physical or chemical irritants, and then eliminate the underlying cause. <br>The second step is to check for any changes in the polyp itself, with the simplest method bein

Tongue pain with the presence of small growths?

I recently noticed that my tongue hurts, especially when my teeth touch it, but I can't see any visible abnormalities.
It also hurts when I touch it with my hand, and it hurts when I move my tongue.
After 1-2 days, a small bump appears, really tiny, about 0.1 cm or even smaller, usually white in color, typically located on the side of the tongue near the base.
After a few days, the pain subsides, but a few weeks later, the pain starts again in the same spot.
There have been a few instances where it occurred at the tip of my tongue, with the same symptoms.
Out of curiosity, I once tried to remove the small bump, which was very painful and caused bleeding.
The bleeding stopped quickly, but that area continued to hurt.
This has been recurring in the same spot; sometimes I get lucky and it happens in one place at a time, but other times, two bumps appear simultaneously.
I'm not sure what is going on.

She with a sore tongue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/19

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: For recurrent polyps, the first step is to identify the cause, which may be due to infection or other physical or chemical irritants, and then eliminate the underlying cause.
The second step is to check for any changes in the polyp itself, with the simplest method being a biopsy.
The third step is to assess for any systemic diseases, among other considerations.
Therefore, it is still recommended that you visit a hospital or clinic for further examination.
Thank you, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/03/19

More Info

Painful bumps on the tongue can be a common and distressing issue, often causing discomfort and concern. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing recurrent episodes of pain in specific areas of your tongue, accompanied by the appearance of small white bumps. This condition can be attributed to several potential causes, and understanding these can help in managing the symptoms effectively.

One of the most common causes of painful bumps on the tongue is canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers. These are small, shallow lesions that can develop on the soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue. They are often painful, especially when irritated by food or contact with teeth. Canker sores can be triggered by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, certain food sensitivities (like citrus or spicy foods), and even nutritional deficiencies (such as vitamin B12, folate, or iron).

Another possibility is trauma or irritation to the tongue. This can occur from biting the tongue, aggressive brushing, or sharp edges of teeth or dental work. If you have a habit of biting your tongue or if your teeth are misaligned, this could lead to recurrent pain and the formation of bumps in the affected area.

Oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, can also present as white patches or bumps on the tongue. This condition is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems, those taking antibiotics, or individuals with diabetes. If you notice a persistent white coating or patches that do not wipe away easily, it may be worth consulting a healthcare provider for evaluation.

Another potential cause could be geographic tongue, a benign condition characterized by irregular patches on the surface of the tongue. These patches can sometimes be sensitive or painful, especially when consuming certain foods. Geographic tongue is generally harmless and does not require treatment, but it can be uncomfortable.

In terms of treatment, here are some recommendations:
1. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods that can exacerbate the pain. Soft, bland foods may be easier to tolerate during flare-ups.

2. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently and using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution to help soothe irritation.

3. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical anesthetics, such as benzocaine, can provide temporary relief from pain. Additionally, oral rinses containing corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation if prescribed by a healthcare professional.

4. Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort. However, be sure to follow the recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Consult a Professional: If the bumps persist, recur frequently, or are accompanied by other symptoms (such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or significant swelling), it is advisable to seek evaluation from a dentist or an oral health specialist. They can provide a thorough examination and determine if further treatment is necessary.

In conclusion, while painful bumps on the tongue can be bothersome, they are often manageable with appropriate care and lifestyle adjustments. Keeping track of any triggers or patterns in your symptoms can also be helpful information to share with your healthcare provider. If you experience any significant changes or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to seek professional advice for a tailored approach to your condition.

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