Is It Serious? Salty Taste and Tongue Bumps

Doctor, am I in trouble?

Recently, I have been experiencing a strange taste in my mouth, similar to a salty flavor.
Upon examining the underside of my tongue, I noticed 5 to 6 small bumps, each about 1-2 mm in size.
They are not painful and I don't feel any discomfort.
Could this be a cause for concern? My girlfriend mentioned that she had a similar experience six months ago and it was completely fine.

Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/14

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Medical regulations stipulate that "physicians must personally examine patients before providing treatment or prescribing medications," and therefore, online diagnosis is not permissible.
If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2020/07/14

More Info

The presence of a salty taste in your mouth, along with the appearance of small bumps on the underside of your tongue, can be concerning, but it is essential to understand the potential causes and implications of these symptoms.
Firstly, the salty taste you are experiencing could be attributed to several factors. One common cause is dehydration, which can lead to a concentration of salts in your saliva. Another possibility is a condition known as dysgeusia, which refers to a distortion of the sense of taste. This can occur due to various reasons, including infections, medications, or even nutritional deficiencies.
The small bumps you mentioned, measuring 1-2 mm and being painless, could be a normal anatomical feature known as lingual papillae, which are present on the tongue's surface. However, if these bumps are new or have changed in appearance, they could indicate a condition such as oral thrush (a fungal infection), a viral infection, or even a benign condition like geographic tongue.
In your case, since you mentioned that your girlfriend experienced similar symptoms six months ago without any issues, it may be worth considering whether there was any environmental factor or dietary change that could have affected both of you. For instance, if you have been consuming more salty foods or if there has been a change in your oral hygiene routine, these could contribute to the symptoms you are experiencing.

It is also important to note that stress and anxiety can exacerbate taste changes and oral sensations. If you have been under increased stress, this could potentially play a role in your current symptoms.

While the symptoms you describe do not immediately suggest a serious condition, it is crucial to monitor them closely. If the salty taste persists, the bumps increase in size, number, or become painful, or if you experience other symptoms such as swelling, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your overall health, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can provide a thorough examination and determine if any further investigation or treatment is necessary.

In summary, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe issue, they warrant attention. Maintaining good oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and being mindful of your diet can help alleviate some of the symptoms. If you have any concerns or if the symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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