Discovering bumps on the back of your tongue can be a concerning observation. While such findings often prompt worry, many bumps are simply a normal part of your oral anatomy, serving various functions in taste and protection. Other bumps might be temporary changes due to irritation or minor infections that resolve on their own. In some cases, however, a bump could signal a more serious underlying condition requiring professional evaluation.
Naturally Occurring Structures
The tongue’s surface naturally contains structures often mistaken for abnormal growths. Circumvallate papillae are large, dome-shaped structures arranged in a V-shape towards the back of the tongue, just in front of the throat. These papillae contain taste buds, play a role in detecting bitter tastes, and their size and prominence can vary.
Foliate papillae are located on the side edges of the tongue, near the back, appearing as vertical folds or ridges. They contain taste buds and are involved in sour taste perception. These papillae can become more noticeable if slightly irritated or swollen.
Lingual tonsils are lymphoid tissues at the base of the tongue, behind the circumvallate papillae. These are part of the body’s immune system, helping to trap pathogens entering the mouth. They can appear as small, bumpy, or cobblestone-like masses and may become more prominent or slightly enlarged when fighting an infection, similar to other tonsils.
Temporary Bumps and Causes
Various temporary conditions can lead to bumps on the back of your tongue. Minor irritation from hot foods, sharp edges, or accidental biting can cause localized swelling of the papillae, known as transient lingual papillitis. These small, red or white bumps are tender and resolve within a few days. Acidic or spicy foods can also temporarily irritate the tongue’s surface.
Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the back of the tongue. These are small, round or oval lesions with a white or yellowish center and a red border, often painful, especially when eating or speaking. While their exact cause is unknown, factors like stress, minor injury, or certain foods may trigger their appearance, and they usually heal within one to two weeks.
Oral thrush, a fungal infection, can manifest as creamy white lesions on the tongue and other oral surfaces. These patches may appear slightly raised or bumpy and can be scraped off, sometimes revealing red, tender tissue underneath. This condition is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems, those taking antibiotics, or denture wearers. Minor viral infections, like cold sores, can also present as small, fluid-filled bumps or blisters on the tongue before forming ulcers.
Distinguishing Concerning Bumps
Some characteristics of tongue bumps warrant closer attention and a professional medical opinion. A bump that persists for more than two to three weeks without any signs of healing should be evaluated by a doctor or dentist. This persistence is a significant indicator, regardless of other symptoms.
Bumps that exhibit unusual changes in color, such as becoming red, white, or dark, or those that bleed easily when touched, are concerning signs. Rapid growth in size or a sudden change in shape also suggests the need for medical assessment. Any bump accompanied by persistent pain, especially if it interferes with eating or speaking, should be promptly examined.
Other symptoms that, when combined with a tongue bump, may indicate a more serious issue include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), unexplained weight loss, or persistent hoarseness. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or jaw area, tender lumps under the skin, can also be a related symptom. If any of these concerning signs are present, consulting a healthcare professional allows for proper diagnosis and appropriate management.