There is a hard lump under the tongue?
Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about a hard lump located under my tongue, near the mandible.
It is closer to the mucosal surface (it moves along with my tongue), is not painful, and does not affect my eating.
I would like to know what this could be and whether I should go to the hospital for treatment.
Here are the photos (the hard lump is circled in black): https://imgur.com/YtA5mOu https://imgur.com/1OrOfvO
Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/16
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, a common concern may be a small salivary gland lump.
If you are worried, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist or oral surgeon for examination and confirmation.
Reply Date: 2024/01/16
More Info
A hard lump under the tongue can be concerning, but it is important to understand that not all lumps are indicative of serious health issues. There are several potential causes for a hard lump in this area, and understanding these can help you determine whether you need to seek medical attention.
One common cause of a hard lump under the tongue is a sublingual gland stone (sialolithiasis). The sublingual glands are located beneath the tongue, and they produce saliva. Sometimes, minerals can accumulate and form stones, which can block the flow of saliva. This can lead to swelling and the formation of a hard lump. If the stone is small and not causing any pain or discomfort, it may not require treatment, but larger stones or those causing symptoms may need to be addressed by a healthcare professional.
Another possibility is a mucocele, which is a cyst that forms when a salivary gland is blocked or damaged. Mucoceles are usually painless and can vary in size. They often resolve on their own, but if they persist or cause discomfort, they may need to be surgically removed.
Additionally, lymph nodes can sometimes become enlarged due to infection or inflammation, and these can be felt as hard lumps under the tongue. If you have had any recent infections, such as a cold or throat infection, this could be a reason for the lump.
In some cases, a hard lump could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a tumor or cancer, although this is less common. If the lump changes in size, becomes painful, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, persistent sore throat, or unexplained weight loss, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation.
Given that the lump you described is not painful and does not affect your eating, it may not be an immediate cause for concern. However, it is essential to monitor it for any changes. If the lump persists for more than two weeks, increases in size, or if you develop any new symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough examination.
In summary, while a hard lump under the tongue can be benign, it is essential to remain vigilant. If you notice any changes or have concerns about the lump, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy if necessary to rule out any serious conditions.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Hard Bumps on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Hello Doctor: Recently, I noticed that a family member has a hard lump on the left side of the front third of their tongue. It is not painful and has been present for several months. The lump has not grown larger and does not affect swallowing function. The color of the lump is s...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Based on the current description, it is likely to be a benign change; however, a definitive diagnosis can only be made through a medical examination. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Minis...[Read More] Understanding Hard Bumps on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Tongue Issues: Should You Worry About Possible Cancer?
My mother (54 years old) developed a hard lump in the middle of her tongue three days ago, located in the central part of the tongue. Additionally, there is a lot of white coating around the tongue. The hard lump is not painful, but it feels like something is stuck there. She doe...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is recommended to drink plenty of water and gargle. If there is no improvement after a week, it is advisable to seek medical examination and treatment. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hosp...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Issues: Should You Worry About Possible Cancer?
What Could a Painless Bump Under the Tongue Indicate?
A painless lump under the tongue could be a variety of things, such as a mucous cyst (ranula), a benign tumor, or a swollen salivary gland. While it is often not a cause for concern, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to rule out an...
Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
It is recommended to visit the outpatient clinic for a check-up. Wishing you good health.[Read More] What Could a Painless Bump Under the Tongue Indicate?
Understanding Tongue Bumps: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Hello, I would like to ask about a spherical, hard lump I discovered on the edge of my tongue (left side) about a year ago after having a cold. I previously consulted an ENT specialist who diagnosed it as geographic tongue. Should I seek another doctor? What could this condition ...
Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
If you feel a hard lump and there is bleeding, it is important to consider the possibility of a tumor. You should schedule an appointment for a medical examination.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Bumps: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Related FAQ
(Otolaryngology)
Parotid Tumor(Otolaryngology)
Difficulty Swallowing(Otolaryngology)
Tongue-Tie(Otolaryngology)
Bitten Tongue(Otolaryngology)
Speech Disorder(Otolaryngology)
Thyroglossal Duct Cyst(Otolaryngology)
Tongue(Internal Medicine)
Tongue(Neurology)
Lingual Frenulum(Otolaryngology)