Tongue Bumps: Why Do They Appear?

Any abnormality on the tongue can hindrance in our daily lives. Generally, anomalies like lumps and bumps, discolouration, and discomfort are common tongue ailments. In this blog, we wil cover everything regarding the causes, symptoms, and general treatment of tongue bumps.

Common Causes of Tongue Bumps

We have listed some of the common reasons behind the appearance of tongue bumps:

• Lie Bumps

Lie bumps are regular day-to-day irritations that happen because of accidentally biting your tongue or minor traumas. These bumps resolve within 1 or 2 days and do not require any treatment.

• Canker Sores

Canker sores occur at the tip of your tongue because of stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, or underlying health conditions. A few over-the-counter ointments and salt water rinse are enough to manage this ailment. However, you should also avoid canker sores triggering factors for faster recovery and prevention.

• Oral Thrush

Oral thrush happens because of the increasing growth of oral fungus or Candida albicans. This is why oral thrush is also referred to as oral candidiasis. It may cause uncomfortable or burning sensations with creamy white patches on the tongue and other parts of the mouth. A doctor will prescribe antifungal drugs for the treatment of oral thrush.

• Traumatic Fibroma

Chronic irritation may cause traumatic fibroma on your tongue. In addition, sharp or broken teeth and dental appliances may harm your tongue and cause this ailment. These bumps resolve on their own; however, the persistent occurrence may need surgical removal.

• Enlarged Papillae

Papillae are tiny, circular structures on the tongue that can get a taste sensation. These papillae sometimes may expand, causing tiny lumps to appear on the tongue’s surface. This condition is usually harmless and often resolves on its own without treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Medical attention must be sought for treating bumps on side of tongue when you experience:

• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms

White bumps on the tongue may need serious medical attention if they are persistent for more than two weeks. A doctor will thoroughly examine you to find the causes and prescribe necessary medicines.

• Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking 

Bumps on back of tongue may cause swallowing or speaking difficulties. These will cause problems in regular life. Therefore, you should consult a doctor if you have problems like these.

• Systemic Symptoms 

Additional symptoms such as fever, abnormal weight loss, or a rash may indicate other underlying medical conditions. These will require complete medical checkups.

Remedies for Tongue Bump

A few remedies for tongue bumps include:

• Regular brushing and flossing
• Using a soft-bristled brush to avoid further harm
• Avoiding acidic, spicy, and hot food to prevent discomfort
• Using topical anaesthetics and over-the-counter medicines for temporary pain relief 
• Using salt water rinse to reduce inflammation
• Taking medicines for oral thrush or bacterial infections
• You may require surgery for swollen bumps on back of tongue

How to Prevent Tongue Bumps from Occurring?

A few tips on tongue bump prevention include:

• Be mindful of biting or chewing on the tongue.
• Managing stress will be a way to prevent canker sores or lie bumps 
• Staying hydrated will help soothe bumps on side of tongue that hurt.

Conclusion

Tongue bumps are treatable and can resolve on their own. In addition, maintaining good oral health is absolutely necessary for tongue bump prevention. Nevertheless, persistent discomfort will require medical attention, and the right diagnosis and treatment to avoid any further damage.