White Bumps Around the Tongue

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The tongue is covered with a mucus membrane and mainly is composed of muscles. The tongue naturally is covered with small white bumps called papillae. The tongue serves the purpose of moving food around your mouth as you eat and helps you form words appropriately. Taste buds are situated between the papillae. Changes in the appearance of the tongue may be due to a number of conditions.''



Types

Large and unusual white bumps may appear in addition to the papillae as a result of canker sores or localized irritations. Bacteria and fungus may accumulate on the tongue and cause it to develop white spots or an overall white coating. Oral lichen planus is a condition that occurs when the mucus membrane becomes inflamed and develops lacy white lesions or patches of white open sores. When papillae become smooth due to an infection or other disorder, the smooth red spots make the remaining papillae appear larger. Ulcers and cancer lesions also can cause white bumps to develop around the tongue.''

Causes

Tongue disorders may be caused by an infection or other irritation such as ill-fitting dentures. Smoking can cause unusual white bumps and lead to a tongue disorder. Stress and fatigue may lead to inflammatory conditions and tongue disorders as well. Other conditions that may lead to white bumps on the tongue include herpes, anemia and neuralgia.

Treatment

Treatment of sores and tongue irritations depends on the underlying causes. For the most part, according to Medline Plus, the white bumps will heal on their own. Medications may be used to treat viral or fungal infections and anti-inflammatory medicine may be prescribed for other conditions. With proper oral hygiene, most white bumps will dissipate. You should see a dentist to have dentures or jagged teeth fixed to prevent local irritations.''

Warning

See your doctor when the bumps are accompanied by other symptoms that could indicate more serious side effects. Sores that won't heal, mouth pain or bleeding could be indications of complications. If the bumps persist, they may develop into cancer and should be treated appropriately once a biopsy of the bumps has been performed.''

Recommendations

In addition to regular brushing and flossing to keep your mouth and tongue free of bacteria and fungus, consider taking other precautions if you are prone to tongue disorders, suggests MayoClinic.com. Avoid tobacco products and alcohol that can irritate a sensitive tongue. Hot, spicy food or foods high in acid content also can exacerbate or trigger tongue disorders.''

Tongue Diagnosis