Tongue Growths: What to Do About Painful Bumps

A growth has developed between the tongue and the frenulum?

Hello, Doctor.
I noticed this phenomenon a few years ago, but at that time the lump was small and asymptomatic, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
Recently, I found that it has grown (I'm not sure if it grew suddenly), and I'm a bit worried that there might be an issue! Biting it causes pain and bleeding, and it is only connected to my tongue by a small point (it's not entirely on the tongue).
Doctor, what could it be? Can it be removed? Should I see an ENT specialist at a major hospital? Would biting it off myself cause any problems? Attached is a photo: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1h0sw7hzK8xsXYVg3j-N8c6MWSjFOnXPq Thank you for your response!

Ān Dōng Ní, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/09

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, suspected papilloma.
It is recommended to visit a hospital to consult an otolaryngologist for surgical removal.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/04/09

More Info

When it comes to painful bumps on the tongue, it’s essential to approach the situation with caution and seek professional medical advice. The growths you are describing could be various things, including but not limited to fibromas, papillomas, or other benign lesions. However, they could also be indicative of more serious conditions, such as oral cancers, especially if they are painful, bleeding, or have changed in size or appearance.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that the tongue is a muscular organ covered with mucous membrane, and it can develop various types of growths. These growths can be caused by irritation, trauma (like biting), infections, or even chronic conditions. The fact that you mentioned the growth is painful and has started to bleed when bitten is a significant concern. Pain and bleeding are often signs that the growth is either inflamed or possibly infected, which warrants further investigation.

You mentioned that the growth is connected to the tongue only by a small base. This could suggest that it is a pedunculated lesion, which is a type of growth that is attached to the tongue by a stalk. While many of these lesions are benign, their characteristics can vary widely, and without a proper examination, it is difficult to determine the exact nature of the growth.

In terms of treatment, self-removal of the growth is not advisable. Attempting to bite or cut it off could lead to significant bleeding, infection, and further complications. Instead, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, specifically an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or an oral surgeon. They will be able to conduct a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies or a biopsy, to determine the nature of the growth.

If the growth is benign, the doctor may recommend monitoring it or may suggest surgical removal if it is causing discomfort or has the potential to become problematic. If it is found to be malignant, early detection is key to effective treatment.

In summary, while it may be tempting to ignore the growth or attempt to remove it yourself, the best course of action is to seek professional medical advice. An ENT specialist will provide you with the appropriate evaluation and treatment options based on the specific characteristics of the growth. Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes, especially when it comes to any changes in your health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Painful Lingual Papules: Causes and Solutions

If you have elongated small growths under your tongue that are painful, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. These growths could be a variety of conditions, such as fibromas, papillomas, or other types of lesions. A healthcare provider c...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Dear Sir/Madam: 1. Laser excision may be considered. 2. It is likely granulation tissue inflammation or a mucous cyst. Dr. Yeh Da-Wei, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Understanding Tongue Lesions: When to Worry About Growths

About six months ago, a small bump appeared on my tongue. It didn't hurt, only itched, so I didn't think much of it. I visited a dentist during that time, and he said it was just tongue inflammation. He prescribed an ointment, but the bump did not go away. Recently, it ...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The above condition may be due to inflammation of the tongue mucosa or hyperplasia of the tongue mucosa due to irritation. It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination.

Understanding Tongue Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help

I have a habit of staying up late (sleeping at 2 or 3 AM). I previously had a similar growth in the same area, but at that time it was not painful, just a bump, and it healed after a while (about three to four months ago). I do not smoke or drink alcohol, and I occasionally eat s...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Commonly, granulomas are caused by inflammation. It is recommended that if they continue to grow or cause pain, you should seek medical examination and treatment. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyu...

Red Bumps on the Back of My Tongue: Causes and Solutions

In recent years, I have developed a red, round growth on the back of my tongue. It coincided with a day when I was sick with a sore throat. I went to see a doctor, but they said to just apply medication. However, I have been using it for a long time without any effect, and recent...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Pain may indicate the presence of a wound or inflammation. At the back of the tongue, there is a row of circumvallate papillae arranged in an inverted V shape. The red, round spots you see may be normal tissue. It is advisable to drink more water and use medication while m...