Bumps on my tongue: Why I have It?
Why do I have bumps on my tongue? Were you eating, and all of a sudden, your tongue hurt? We don’t think about our tongues too much, but they can indicate our overall health. The tongue’s appearance can change for various reasons, the most harmless being: Have you ever seen bumps on the back of your tongue? Well, these bumps have a reason to be, and in this article, we’ll explore them, so make sure to stick around to understand the reasons behind bumps on my tongue and learn how to treat them.
What are the bumps on my tongue?
The taste buds, also known as papillae, are hundreds of bumps on the surface of our tongues. If you look in the mirror and pay attention to your tongue, you can see them. These tiny bumps are usually unnoticeable because they have a transparent color and texture. However, sometimes they can look swollen. Although bumps on my tongue may only be a temporary annoyance, they can make eating, talking, swallowing, and even tasting food an absolute nightmare. But the bumps on my tongue will likely heal on their own in most cases. On the other hand, extreme, spreading, or long-lasting bumps could indicate the presence of another underlying condition that requires you to get medical attention.
What causes bumps on my tongue?
For the most part, you shouldn’t stress out and think of the worst when it comes to tongue bumps. The bumps on my tongue tend to be expected and usually harmless. Still, it’s good to be aware of every case scenario because sometimes it can be more severe. You may get bumps on the back of your tongue as a result of:
Injuries
A tongue injury may cause a bumpy tongue. Like other body parts, the tongue will swell in reaction to an injury. If you bite your tongue unintentionally, there’s a chance you can experience a swollen bump for a few days afterward.
Another common cause of tongue injuries
Canker Sores
Are prevalent types of mouth sores. They usually appear on the inside of the lips but can also appear on the tongue. The sores are typically red, white, or yellow and can be raw and painful. Some people say canker sores seem to be triggered by some foods. Still, the cause of canker sores is unknown. Most canker sores can heal independently, but some become very painful and need attention from a dentist in Mexico.
Allergies
Food intolerances and allergic reactions can swell the tongue and cause bumps. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that causes sudden, widespread swelling of the tongue. If you notice you have any of the symptoms below, you should seek medical attention right away.
Oral herpes
Herpes is a viral infection that affects many adults. Some individuals with oral herpes have no symptoms at all. Some, however, will sometimes grow cold, sore blisters around their nose or mouth. Blisters can appear on the tongue and gums. They are known for being very painful and can last up to a week. Oral herpes may be transmitted by saliva, direct contact with the infected region, or contact with the mouth and tongue lining.
Irritation
Some foods, such as sour candy or highly acidic foods, may irritate the tongue, gums, and lips. This can cause rough bumps on the back of the tongue to appear and last a few days. You can generally blame this issue on any recent dietary changes.
Oral trush
An oral thrush is a form of yeast infection that affects the mouth. Yeast is a form of fungus that thrives in damp, dark environments. This condition is common in babies, particularly newborns. Rough white patches on the tongue or lips are signs of oral thrush. There is also redness and a sore throat. Some people report a cottony sensation in their mouth or a dry feeling. Others feel discomfort or cracking near their lips when eating.
Cancer
Bumps on my tongue, although rare, may be a symptom of oral or tongue cancer. Squamous cell papillomas, or wart-like bumps, can appear white or red and are usually harmless. The only way you can find out for sure if an odd bump is cancerous is to visit a doctor who can give you a diagnosis. Another disorder that causes tongue bumps is leukoplakia. When the cells in your mouth expand too quickly, they irritate your taste buds. Inflamed tongue bumps can occur in people with diabetes, anemia, and autoimmune diseases.
Common types of bumps on my tongue
Not all bumps are the same. The bumps’ type, size, and location can provide valuable clues about their cause.
Transient Lingual Papillitis (Lie Bumps)
These small, red, or white bumps appear suddenly and are often caused by irritation or minor injuries. They usually resolve quickly.
Enlarged Circumvallate Papillae
The bumps at the back of the tongue are often standard and part of your taste buds, but they may occasionally become inflamed.
Fissured Tongue
A tongue with deep grooves or cracks can trap food and bacteria, leading to irritation and bumps.
Symptoms of bumps on my tongue
The back of your tongue has typically inflamed bumps that look bigger and swollen. They can also change color, being white, bright pink, or black patches. Watch out for these signs:
A burning feeling or pain
Although enlarged bumps on the back of the tongue may irritate it, you can also notice a localized burning sensation in the affected region. This pain could be ongoing or just noticeable when you use your tongue.
Changes in flavor
The papillae on the back of your tongue do not regulate taste. However, if the inflammation has spread, you can lose some or all of your taste sensations or have trouble distinguishing between salty, bitter, sweet, or sour tastes.
You’re having trouble moving your tongue
The bumps on the back of your tongue can swell, making it challenging to move your tongue normally. Depending on the severity, this may affect regular speech and swallowing. Swelling may also make the tongue feel sore and look more extensive, as the top and bottom teeth can not fit together neatly around the tongue in some cases.
A texture that feels furry or hairy
Between inflamed tongue bumps, debris, bacteria, and dead skin cells may become trapped and stuck—a white, fluffy coat forms on the surface of your tongue due to this accumulation.
Are bumps on my tongue dangerous?
While tongue bumps are rarely life-threatening, monitoring them closely is essential. Changes in size, color, or persistence may signal an issue requiring medical intervention. For instance, bumps that don’t heal or continue to grow could indicate more severe health problems, such as infections or cancer.
How to treat tongue bumps?
Some causes of tongue bumps require special attention from a dentist in Mexico. Most bumps on the back of the tongue, on the other hand, can be relieved at home. The following are some examples of home remedies:
- Drink plenty of water, preferably through a straw if it’s more convenient.
- Use a warm salt water rinse.
- Try your best not to smoke or consume alcoholic beverages.
- Use numbing creams or gels on the skin.
How to prevent bumps on my tongue
Prevention is always better than cure. Practicing good oral hygiene can minimize the risk of developing tongue bumps.
- Brush your teeth and tongue regularly to remove debris and bacteria.
- Floss daily to prevent food particles from irritating.
- Avoid consuming overly hot or spicy foods that may injure the tongue.
- Stay hydrated to promote a healthy oral environment.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine check-ups.
When do you see a dentist?
Although many bumps on my tongue are harmless, persistent or worsening symptoms require medical attention. A dentist or doctor can diagnose and treat underlying conditions like oral thrush, herpes, or cancer. Clinics like Trust Dental Care in Mexico offer expert care and affordable treatment options.
Recommendation
Prevention is the safest form of home treatment. Keeping your oral hygiene on track can prevent inflamed bumps on the back of your tongue from recurring. If you’d still like professional help, you can always contact a dentist in Mexico. You can schedule a consultation with Trust Dental Care and let us know all your concerns.
Why choose Trust Dental Care?
At Trust Dental Care, we specialize in comprehensive oral care, ensuring your concerns are addressed with precision and empathy. We’re committed to your health and confidence, offering affordable services without compromising quality. Our $60 new patient promo includes an exam, x-rays, and cleaning—saving you up to 75%. Take advantage of this opportunity to maintain a healthy smile!