Red Growth on Tongue: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - Otolaryngology

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The presence of a red growth on your tongue, particularly one that has persisted for about a month and has recently become painful, can be concerning. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be dealing with a condition known as a "fibroma" or possibly a "mucocele," which can occur after trauma, such as biting your tongue. These growths are typically benign but can become irritated or inflamed, especially if they are subjected to further trauma or friction from your teeth.


Causes of Red Growth on the Tongue
1. Trauma: As you mentioned, you bit your tongue, which can lead to the formation of a growth as the tissue heals. This can sometimes result in a fibrous tissue response, leading to a red, raised area.

2. Irritation: Continuous irritation from teeth or dental appliances can exacerbate the condition, causing pain and inflammation.

3. Infections: In some cases, infections can lead to the development of lesions on the tongue. This could be viral, bacterial, or fungal in nature.

4. Allergic Reactions: Certain foods, medications, or dental products can cause allergic reactions that manifest as red lesions on the tongue.

5. Oral Conditions: Conditions like geographic tongue or oral lichen planus can also present with red patches or lesions on the tongue.


Symptoms to Monitor
- Pain: The fact that the growth has become painful is significant. Pain can indicate inflammation or infection.

- Changes in Size or Color: If the growth changes in size, color, or shape, it warrants further evaluation.

- Bleeding: If you notice any bleeding from the area, it is essential to seek medical attention.

- Associated Symptoms: Look out for other symptoms such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or systemic symptoms that could indicate a more serious condition.


Treatment Options
1. Observation: If the growth is not causing significant discomfort and your doctor has advised you to monitor it, you may choose to observe it for any changes.

2. Avoid Irritation: Try to avoid further irritation by being cautious when eating or speaking. Soft foods may help reduce friction.

3. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any potential infections. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help soothe the area.

4. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relief medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. If there is an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

5. Surgical Removal: If the growth continues to be painful or does not resolve, surgical removal may be necessary. This is typically a straightforward procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon.

6. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor the growth. If it persists or worsens, further diagnostic tests may be needed to rule out other conditions.


Conclusion
In summary, while a red growth on the tongue can often be benign, the recent onset of pain suggests that it may require further evaluation. It is crucial to monitor the growth and seek medical advice if it does not improve or worsens. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding irritation can help manage the symptoms. If you have any concerns or if the growth changes, do not hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.