Bumps on Back of Tongue:14 Causes with Treatment

Bumps on the back of the tongue can be a cause for concern. While most of these bumps are harmless and temporary, some may indicate underlying health issues. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 14 common causes of bumps on the back of the tongue, their symptoms, and available treatment options.

What are Tongue Bumps?

The tongue is covered with small bumps called papillae. They are a normal part of the tongue’s anatomy. They contain taste buds and temperature sensors, which can help us taste and sense hot or cold foods.

Normally, these papillae are unnoticeable due to their consistent color and texture. However, certain conditions can cause them to become inflamed, leading to the appearance of bumps on the back of the tongue.

Inflamed papillae can appear raised or enlarged and may cause pain, soreness, or unusual sensitivity. These bumps can vary in size, color, and texture, depending on the underlying cause. Identifying the cause of tongue bumps is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms That Accompany Tongue Bumps

In addition to the appearance of bumps on the back of the tongue, several accompanying symptoms may be present. These symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include:

• Pain in the mouth or tongue when eating or swallowing
• Dry mouth
• White patches on the insides of the cheeks, tongue, or back of the throat
• Bleeding from the bumps
• Lump or swelling in the neck
• Fever
• Malaise (general feeling of being unwell)
• Trouble speaking or moving the tongue
• Change or loss of taste

14 Causes of Bumps on the Back of the Tongue

1. Injury or Irritation

A tongue injury, such as unintentionally biting the tongue or consuming hot foods and drinks, can lead to the formation of bumps or rough patches. These bumps are usually temporary and resolve on their own. However, if the pain or swelling persists, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

2. Lie Bumps (Transient Lingual Papillitis)

Lie bumps, also known as transient lingual papillitis (TLP), are temporary inflammations of the papillae. The exact cause of lie bumps is unknown, but they may be influenced by hormonal, dietary, and stress-related factors. Fortunately, lie bumps typically resolve on their own without treatment.

3. Canker Sores

Canker sores are small ulcers that can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the back of the tongue. These ulcers may start with a tingling or burning sensation before a white sore appears. Various factors, such as eating acidic foods, vitamin deficiencies, prolonged stress, or smoking, can contribute to the development of canker sores.

4. Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects children. It can cause large red bumps to appear on the back of the tongue, along with other symptoms such as cracked lips, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and joint pain.

If left untreated, this disease can lead to serious complications. Treatment typically involves the administration of gamma globulin and aspirin.

5. Warts on the Tongue

While warts typically appear in different areas of the oral cavity, they can occasionally manifest on the tongue.

Warts in the mouth can appear as a cluster or a singular growth, with a raised and sometimes discolored appearance. Warts are usually painless and can be caused by an infected finger or through oral sex with an infected individual.

6. Natural Bumps

The tongue is covered in tiny bumps called papillae, which contain taste buds. These papillae are larger at the back of the tongue compared to the front.

Additionally, there are lingual tonsils, which are round masses of lymphatic tissue, located at the back of the tongue.

These natural bumps can appear enlarged or inflamed due to various factors such as sinus infections, spicy foods, or naturally large taste buds. In most cases, these bumps do not require medical intervention and will heal on their own.

7. Allergies

Allergic reactions, particularly to medications or food, can cause bumps to appear on any part of the tongue. These bumps are usually larger at the back of the tongue and may be accompanied by swelling or welts on the face.

If the swelling is severe, medical attention should be sought to ensure proper breathing. Antihistamines can be used to treat these bumps, but monitoring for severe symptoms is essential.

8. Oral Thrush

Thrush is a fungal infection that can cause a white or yellow coating to appear on the tongue. Lesions of thrush may also develop on the palate, gums, or tonsils, and the tissue beneath the coating may be red and prone to bleeding.

Thrush lesions can be painful, affect taste, and multiply quickly. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications prescribed by a healthcare professional.

9. Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition characterized by thick, white lesions that can appear in the mouth, including on the back of the tongue, gums, and cheeks.

While these bumps are usually benign, they can potentially be precancerous. Red lesions known as erythroplakia and wrinkled patches called hairy leukoplakia can also occur.

It is important to monitor these bumps and seek medical attention if they become thick, hard, or sensitive to spicy food or heat.

10. Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever, a bacterial infection, can cause bumps to appear on the mouth, often accompanied by a bright red tongue. This condition usually begins with a rash on the abdomen or chest that spreads throughout the body. Additional symptoms may include a high fever and a sore throat.

11. Cold Sores

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are typically found on the lips or the tip of the tongue. However, they can sometimes affect areas further back in the oral cavity, including the back of the tongue.

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 and are characterized by small gray blisters with a red base. Prior to the appearance of the blisters, individuals may experience tingling, itching, or pain at the site of infection.

12. Viral or Bacterial Infections

Viral or bacterial infections can lead to the development of red or white swollen bumps on the back of the tongue.

A throat infection or a bacterial infection can cause the bumps to become larger, redder, and more painful. In some cases, these infections may also be accompanied by a sore throat and fever.

13. Glossitis

Glossitis is an inflammatory condition that causes the tongue to lose its papillae, resulting in a smooth, red, and irritated appearance.

Geographic tongue, a type of glossitis, causes irregular patches that move across the tongue over time. Nutrient or vitamin deficiencies, infections, allergies, hereditary factors, and hormonal imbalances can contribute to the development of glossitis.

14. Cancer

While painless oral bumps are rarely malignant, any bump on the tongue carries a risk of being cancerous. Cancerous bumps on the tongue may be reddish or white and tend to bleed easily.

Other symptoms can include ear pain, recurrent sore throats, numbness, and difficulty swallowing or chewing. If these symptoms are present, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.