Unexplained Tongue Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Tongue issues?

I don't recall biting my tongue, but after finishing a meal, I suddenly felt a foreign sensation at the tip of my tongue.
Upon looking in the mirror, I noticed a dark red area that appears to be a bruise on the tip of my tongue, but it doesn't hurt.
Here is the photo link: https://lurl.cc/2SdBo.

Chi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/04

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, common conditions that may be related to inflammation and submucosal bleeding.
If symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation.

Reply Date: 2023/09/04

More Info

Understanding unexplained tongue symptoms can be quite perplexing, especially when you notice sudden changes like a black-red spot that resembles a bruise on the tongue. The tongue is a highly vascularized organ, which means it has a rich blood supply, and any changes in its appearance can be alarming.
In your case, the sudden appearance of a black-red spot on the tongue, particularly if it is not associated with pain, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that it could be a form of localized trauma, even if you do not recall biting your tongue. Sometimes, minor injuries can occur without our awareness, especially if you were eating something that could have caused a slight abrasion.
Another potential explanation could be a condition known as "lingual varicosities," which are dilated veins on the surface of the tongue that can appear as dark spots. These are generally benign and often do not require treatment unless they become symptomatic.
Additionally, the appearance of a bruise-like spot could also be related to a condition called "geographic tongue," which is characterized by irregular patches on the surface of the tongue. While this condition is typically harmless, it can sometimes cause discomfort or a burning sensation.
In some cases, unexplained changes in the tongue can be indicative of systemic issues, such as vitamin deficiencies (like B12 or folate), or even conditions like oral lichen planus, which can cause white patches or lesions on the tongue and inside the mouth. However, these conditions usually present with additional symptoms.

Given that the spot is not painful and you have not experienced any other concerning symptoms, it may not be an immediate cause for alarm. However, it is essential to monitor the spot for any changes in size, color, or associated symptoms such as pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing.
If the spot persists for more than a couple of weeks, or if you notice any other unusual symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably an ENT specialist or a dentist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy, if there is any suspicion of a more serious condition.

In summary, while the appearance of a black-red spot on the tongue can be concerning, it is often benign and may result from minor trauma or other non-serious conditions. However, keeping an eye on the symptoms and seeking medical advice if necessary is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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