Bumps on Back of Tongue

A normal tongue possesses small, natural projections or bumps that are called papillae, which house taste buds. Compared to other parts of the tongue, bumps on the back of this organ are larger in size. Some of these bumps on the back of the tongue are called 'circumvallate papillae' that are also known as 'vallate papillae'. These larger papillae too contain taste buds and are arranged on the base of the tongue in a V-shape that points towards the throat. There are around eight to twelve circumvallate papillae that may not be easily visible as they are located on the rear side of the tongue. There are also lingual tonsils, which are rounded masses of lymphatic tissues that are located on the base of this organ. These are the natural bumps that are found on the base of the tongue.

What Causes Bumps on Back of Tongue

Even though, presence of bumps on back of the tongue is normal, the appearance of these structures may change due to various reasons, that may include certain diseases. For example, chronic sinus infections may cause enlargement of circumvallate papillae, located on the back of tongue. Some people have large taste buds that may appear as bumps on tongue. In some cases, hot and spicy foods may irritate taste buds, thereby causing inflammation and enlargement. Some medical conditions may cause new bumps to develop on the tongue. The following are some of the causes of big red bumps on back of the tongue.

Injury or Trauma
Injuries like bites or burns, can cause large red bumps on the tongue. But, as compared to the frontal part of the organ, there are very less chances for the rear side (of the tongue) to get affected by such injuries, which can be painful. In case of such injuries, large red bumps may occur on the tongue. These bumps can be treated with an antiseptic or saltwater mouth rinse, though they are found to heal on their own. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to prevent any bacterial infection.

Allergies and Canker Sores
Large, red bumps on back of the tongue may be caused by some sort of allergy, especially food allergies and those caused by certain medication. Bumps due to allergies can appear on all parts of the tongue, the backside carrying the larger ones. While mild cases of swelling and hives are treated with antihistamines, severe swelling needs immediate medical attention. Canker sores can appear on any part of the tongue or mouth. The unusually large bumps on back of tongue could be canker sores, which may be left to heal naturally. It can also be treated with saltwater rinse, for faster healing.

Kawasaki Disease and Warts
Another uncommon and rare cause for bumps on back of the tongue is an autoimmune disease, which affects children. This condition, which is called Kawasaki disease, is characterized by large, red bumps on the backside of the tongue. Even though very little is known about this condition, which can cause the tongue to turn deep red in color, it is considered fatal for the affected child, if left untreated. The large bumps on back of the tongue could be warts too. These warts can be of two types - ordinary ones, transmitted by sucking of fingers (with warts) and genital warts, transmitted through oral sex with a person who has active genital warts. Warts are similar to bumps in appearance and can be removed.

Other Causes

• Oral thrush or fungal infection of the mouth is characterized by lesions with whitish or slightly yellow coating. Such lesions may develop on the gums, tongue, palate and even the tonsils. In some cases, these lesions may appear as bumps with whitish coating.
• Even sexually transmitted diseases like oral herpes and syphilis may cause bumpy lesions on the tongue.
• Another medical condition that can cause raised, bumpy lesions on the tongue, is leukoplakia. Though the condition is benign, in some cases, such raised lesions could be precancerous.
• Red bumps on tongue may develop with scarlet fever too. Even accidental biting, toothbrush abrasions, etc., may cause bumpy lesions on tongue.
• Though not common, some of the oral bumps may be malignant, especially the painless ones. So, oral cancer is also a possible cause for bumps on tongue.

In short, bumps on back of tongue are normal, if they are symmetrical and not unusually large with a change in color. These normal bumps may get slightly larger and inflamed, in case of injury, infections, etc. However, painless, one-sided lumps that appear without any apparent reason need to be checked, as there are chances of malignancy. So, if you notice bumps on back of tongue, don't panic. If you notice larger bumps which are red in color, on the back of the tongue, then wait for a few days. If these bumps do not disappear within a few days, you have to consult a doctor at the earliest.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.