What does it mean when the sides of your tongue are scalloped?

In most cases, a scalloped tongue occurs due to swelling or inflammation of the tongue. Tongue swelling is also called macroglossia. Each cause of macroglossia or swelling of the tongue results in other symptoms too. Knowing the different symptoms can help you understand what might be at the root of your tongue issues.

What does it mean when your tongue has indents on the side?

Geographic tongue is harmless. Some people may notice indents on the side of the tongue from their teeth. This is known as “scalloped tongue” and can be caused by conditions like stress or hyperthyroidism. If you have a glossy, bright red tongue, it could mean that you have a vitamin deficiency.

What does bumps on the back of your tongue mean?

Your tongue has bumps on the back called papillae that are part of its normal anatomy; do nothing if you have no other symptoms. New or different bumps or masses can be caused by infections or other conditions. Bumps on the tongue (papillae) contain taste buds, temperature receptors, and a good blood supply.

Can your thyroid make your tongue swell?

Thyroid problems are known to cause tongue swelling to the point of scalloping. Dehydration may be another cause. It is important to consult your doctor if you experience a scalloped tongue, particularly if a thyroid problem is possible.

What does a thyroid tongue look like?

The appearance of your tongue may indicate whether or not your altered taste buds stem from a thyroid issue. A healthy tongue is slightly pink, moist, and mostly smooth. If your tongue is dry, discolored, coated, or painful, you may suffer from hypothyroidism.

Can your thyroid affect your tongue?

Patients with hypothyroidism, also known as underactive thyroid, may experience macroglossia (enlargement of the tongue), gum disease, slow healing of mouth sores, and, in children, delayed tooth growth.

Can macroglossia be cured?

No medical treatments have been proven useful when the cause is unclear. Surgery to reduce the size of the tongue may be an option for people with macroglossia. Most studies have shown that surgical procedures for macroglossia lead to improved physical appearance, speech, chewing and feeding.

How do you get rid of a bump on the side of your tongue?

Treatment and home remedies

1. avoiding acidic and spicy foods until the bumps disappear.
2. drinking plenty of water.
3. gargling with warm salt water and baking soda mouth rinses on a regular basis.
4. applying topical remedies to reduce pain.
5. avoiding alcohol-based mouthwashes until the bumps disappear.

How do you treat bumps on the back of your tongue?

Treatment for Tongue Bumps

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Apply a topical oral gel to alleviate pain.
3. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
4. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may irritate the tongue or gums.
5. Avoid tobacco products.

What are early warning signs of hyperthyroid problems?

Symptoms

• Unintentional weight loss, even when your appetite and food intake stay the same or increase.
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) — commonly more than 100 beats a minute.
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Pounding of your heart (palpitations)
• Increased appetite.
• Nervousness, anxiety and irritability.

Can a lump on the side of your tongue be cancer?

Tongue cancer. Rarely, bumps on the tongue can be an indication of oral cancer. However, according to Cedars-Sinai, the lump is most likely to appear on the side of the tongue that touches the teeth. But the lump can appear on any portion of the tongue, and lumps on the base of the tongue are often hard to diagnose until they become larger.

When should I be concerned about a bump under my tongue?

However, people should speak with a doctor if they have a bump under the tongue that does not heal within 10 days. People should also seek medical attention if they have a bump under the tongue or swelling in the mouth that interferes with their ability to speak, swallow, or chew.

What are the symptoms of papillae on the tongue?

Papillae do not have many specific symptoms, other than the fact that the bumps are of either white or red color. The bumps on tongue could lead to some pain and irritation on the tongue, too. Bumps that appear on the side of the tongue can feel like a lump, or look like a pimple.

What are the white bumps on the side of my tongue?

Lymphoepithelial cysts usually appear as flesh-colored, white, or yellow bumps under the tongue or on the floor of the mouth. Sialolithiasis, also known as salivary stones, is a condition in which stones of crystalized minerals form in the ducts of the salivary glands.